Thread: Eucalyptus cutting boards?

Originally Posted by Koffi Bruin

Post No1!

I have a number of dead/dying peppermint gums along my driveway which I have to remove as they are becoming dangerous (falling limbs).
My question is, will the timber be suitable for oblique-cut cutting boards?
If so, how should they be dried after cutting?
If the euc is not suitable, any suggestions for a good use of the timber? (other than firewood)
The trunks are tapered from around 30cm diameter.
I know, that's three questions but I'm the inquisitive type.

My experiments in drying peppermints have always ended in tears and firewood. If you cut them into cutting boards before they dry you will end up with a whole lot of split pieces. If you immediately seal the ends and then let them dry out as logs the amount of splitting will be less but the cutting is harder and generally difficult. Others may have had more success.

At work (sawill) we've got heaps of chooping boards made from all kinds of Euc. So I don't see any reason for it to not be useable - drying it would would be the only issue.

Thanks guys for the advice. This is the first time I've posted to the forum and it's a good feeling to know there are people out there willing to share their knowledge and experience.
The trees were damaged in a recent cyclone, and may be split down the centre anyway, but I just thought they might be useful for something.
Thanks again.
Michael