Harvesting birch bark...

[x39]

I have a small birch tree that I need to remove and figured I'd spud the bark off it for assorted projects. Does anyone know when the optimum time of year to do this would be? I was thinking just prior to the sap rising. Any thoughts? Thanks.

 

[BlackHills]

In Bushcraft Mors says it's easiest to remove in May and June.

 

[KiljoyKutlery]

Warmer months, when the sap is running...the bark will come off much easier. You should tap the tree, try to make birch beer!!!!

 

[x39]

You should tap the tree, try to make birch beer!!!!

Not a bad idea, maybe birch syrup as well... I've cut limbs off of birch trees in the spring and have been amazed at the amount of sap that runs out of the cut.

 

[dboles]

Bark comes off best in spring
Birch beer is good so is birch wine,syrup on the otherhand is 50-1.So fifty gallons of sap for 1 gallon syrup.
Dan'l

 

[grunt soldier]

birch beer really? man you guys on this forum got unlimited knowledge around here. lol anyone have any specifics on how to do this?