First, I mix the shavings, leaves, banana, beer, etc. and moistened on a separate container until some water starts to puddle at the bottom. Note I use shavings NOT sawdust. I also add old shavings or sawdust from spalted stock...these will be my "seeding"
My shavings (mesquite) and leaves (oak) are chosen for their tannin content. Use something similar that is available in your area if possible.
I line the bottom of the bin with the "mix" and put as much wood as I can...putting more "mix" between the woods. I try to stack the wood so there is air movement. Put a thick mix cover at the top and cover the container with its own lid. If not available use a cardboard or something to retard water evaporation.
The bin must have hole at the bottom to drain extra water else the bottom wood may totally rot much faster than the rest.
Depending on how fast the container dries you may have to water the bin every month or so, I just spray it when the mood hits me.
Above procedure is for green wood, remove sealer if you had it sealed. If your wood is dry, try to soak it in water for a few days. Use the same water from the "mix" if you can. I found that dry wood is very difficult to re-hydrate and when done poorly may not spalt properly.
Others have their own procedure and most will work just know that the intent is to give the fungus an ideal environment to grow and eat your wood LOL. Don't let them eat too much, else you will end up with nothing but mush or unuseable rotten wood. Start checking after 2 months but normally 4 months is plenty. If not, you are doing something wrong IMHO.
FINALLY, you are handling fungus...which can be harmful to your health. Take proper precautions and wear a mask (at the very least) when checking, harvesting, milling and turning the wood.
WHEW!!! that's long!
] I was a little mad at my neighbor who didn't tell me he had logged his woods until 4 years had gone by. I prefer my firewood to be somewhat green. I shut up when I saw all the beautifly spaulted maple. I'm going to saw 2-3 logs into boards soon. Curly spaulted maple is awesome!!!
