Dead Granny Smith Apple Tree..can I use it in my stick burner

[Smokin' Deal]

Not sure if this is the right place to post, but a friend has a dead Granny Smith apple tree and has offered to cut it into logs and give me the wood. I've seen the tree ...guessing it's been dead about a year, and some bark has moss in it.

I don't want to look a gift horse in the mouth. I have been buying wood from a local firewood supply (hickory, cherry and apple). Any thoughts on whether to use the wood and if so, any issues or concerns? What about any bark with moss?

Thanks!

[Callahan-que]

If you're worried about the moss covered bark just cut it off.

[Smokin' Deal]

I just didn't know if I should use any of the wood...any past chainsaws used, and similar wood used in a stick burner? Does it have to age before burning .

[Titch]

Yes the wood needs to be dry and aged, How long, depends on the size of the lumps and your environment.

[poorolddan]

I burn tons of apple. Love it. If it's been dead over 3 months it's ready. Remove any nasty bark and you are good. It's a flavoring wood like hickory. It would be a waste to burn it as a heating wood like oak or mulberry IMO.

[nucornhusker]

I'd cut off the moss as advised and cook away.

[Ole Man Dan]

I primarily smoke with Oak, Hickory, and Pecan, but...
I burn Apple, Pear, Peach when it's available.

[martyleach]

That's great wood. I wood look for oil marks from chainsaw and cut off if possible. Knock the mossy bark off and you should have some awesome wood. Mild, fruity wood.

[Pyle's BBQ]

I wouldn't worry about oil from a chainsaw. There is so little that makes it to the wood. The moss will be the first stuff to burn off and won't effect the smoke.

[Neil]

Don't listen to those farkers above! Load it up and drive it over to St. Joseph, MI, only about a 2 1/2 drive, so that I can dispose of it properly. :biggrin: Think of all the flack you will take from your neighbors if you try to burn it, remember how they crucified Mr. T just for cutting the trees!!!!!

[sliding_billy]

+1. As long as it is seasoned, you are good to go.

[Smokin' Deal]

Thanks to all the Brethren for responding...looks like I have some wood to burn!!:biggrin1: