In spring or autumn?
Both seasons are excellent - in the spring graft for faster onset of drying and easier grafting of some conifers; Autumn and for better logistics, more stable temperatures and preparation for winter. The right choice depends on Types of wood, equipments (e.g. wood splitter/Holzspalter) and yours storage conditions. For the basics of power and types of machines, see the guide: Wood splitter - types, power, drives.
How the weather affects grafting and drying
Humidity, temperature and wind
Drying drives air flow in lower relative humidity. In spring, a longer drying cycle begins, but precipitation can be frequent. In autumn, the air is often drier, temperatures stable, but the day is shorter - so logistics are key.
Wood structure and resin
Conifers (spruce, fir) have more resins, which drains less during the colder season, the logs are cleaner. In deciduous trees (beech, oak, hornbeam), they are important correct tonnage and clean technique - see What is firewood grafting?
Spring vaccination - advantages and disadvantages
Advantages
- Longer drying time by winter → greater likelihood of well-dried pollen.
- In some conifers, grafting is softer (less force required).
- Easier to plan work throughout the season.
Weaknesses
- More precipitation→ more complex organization of the workplace and warehouse.
- Harder deciduous trees may require more tonnage; consider a more powerful wood splitter/.
Autumn vaccination - advantages and disadvantages
Advantages
- Often more dry and cold weather, less resin in conifers → cleaner work.
- Logistics before winter: stock of logs ready immediately, less carrying during the season.
- A good opportunity for serial work with cutting and splitting machine.
Weaknesses
- Shorter days and lower temperatures → more emphasis on organization and lighting.
- If you start too late, for a fully dried log it may be too little time until the coldest months.
Tools and machines: what works in which season?
- Wood splitter (Holzspalter): universal all year round; in winter, watch out for hydraulics (cold).
- PTO/Gasoline Electricity: for the fall season, when you work larger volumes; strength and mobility are a plus.
- Slitting and splitting machine: best for serially production before winter (cut + cleavage in one stream).
- Hydraulic Splitter For Excavator (e.g. excavator splitter BearSplitter): ideal for very large diameters and terrain, when you want to shorten the logistics (the operator stays in the cabin). Why this is a “smart way”, read in: Smart way to split firewood - BearSplitter.
Impact of the season on ROI
In the spring you start drying earlier, so you will create a stock “ready to burn” earlier. In autumn you often work quicker due to lower resininess and more stable conditions. If you want the figures for your case (m³, hours, costs), use the calculation in the blog: “How fast is the return on investment?” - time saving calculator.
Choose the right approach for your season
- 🧭 Basics (types, power, drives): Guide 2025
- 🧠 Smart approach for large diameters/terrain: BearSplitter - wood splitter
- 🛡️ Safety: 5 rules for a wood splitter