Here’s a detailed guide on bark removal in agarwood harvesting, including when it is recommended and when it should be avoided:
1. Purpose of Bark Removal
- Exposing resin-rich wood for inspection, processing, or resin extraction.
- Facilitating core sampling or incremental cutting.
- Removing outer layers that do not contain resin, which are typically non-aromatic.
2. When to Remove Bark
A. During Harvest of Mature Resin
- Resin has fully developed in the heartwood.
- Bark can be removed to:
- Clearly identify resin zones.
- Allow cutting or processing of resin-rich logs.
- Often done just before transporting logs to processing facilities.
B. For Small Branches or Logs
- When resin is concentrated near the xylem, removing bark helps maximize yield for chips or oil extraction.
C. Controlled Removal
- Use chisels, knives, or bark peeler tools to avoid damaging the underlying resin-rich wood.
- Remove only outer bark layer, leaving cambium and resin zones intact.
3. When NOT to Remove Bark
A. During Resin Induction or Early Maturation
- Bark serves as protection for developing resin zones.
- Removing it too early can:
- Expose the tree to pathogens or pests.
- Reduce resin accumulation.
- Stress the tree unnecessarily.
B. For Unharvested Trees
- Trees intended for future resin production should retain bark.
- Bark protects:
- Cambium layer for continued growth.
- Wounds from drying too quickly or infection.
C. Actively Infected or Decaying Tissue
- Avoid removing bark over rotted or moldy wood, as it can spread pathogens.
4. Best Practices for Bark Removal
- Timing: Remove bark only when resin is mature and ready for harvest.
- Tools: Use sharp, clean tools to avoid splintering wood.
- Method:
- Score the bark around the resin zone.
- Peel carefully without damaging underlying wood.
- Safety: Wear gloves and eye protection to prevent injury from splinters.
- Recordkeeping: Document which trees or sections had bark removed for traceability.
5. Summary Table
| Condition / Stage | Bark Removal Recommendation | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Mature resin, ready for harvest | ✅ Remove | Expose resin-rich wood for cutting and processing |
| Early resin / induction stage | ❌ Do not remove | Protect developing resin; prevent infection |
| Unharvested plantation trees | ❌ Do not remove | Maintain cambium and tree health |
| Actively decayed/infected tissue | ❌ Do not remove | Avoid spreading pathogens |
| Small branches/logs, mature resin | ✅ Remove (controlled) | Maximize resin yield for chips or oil extraction |
If you want, I can create a diagram showing proper bark removal vs. when not to remove, highlighting resin zones, cambium protection, and safety—perfect for a field training manual.
Do you want me to make that diagram?