Freezing and Oven Methods to Kill Wood-Boring Insects
Christopher Schwarz, a woodworker, presents a pesticide-free approach to eradicate wood-boring insects from green wood by utilizing everyday kitchen appliances. This technique, endorsed by Michael F. Potter, an extension entomologist from the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, requires freezing the wood at -4°F for a duration of seven days. Schwarz has successfully employed this freezing method for several years. He advises using a plastic bag for finished pieces, while it is not necessary for raw wood. Additionally, he outlines an alternative method involving gentle heat in an oven with a pan of water to maintain humidity, although he has not yet tried this approach. Freezing also helps retain the wood's moisture, allowing it to remain green indefinitely.
Key facts
- Method involves freezing wood at -4°F for seven days.
- Technique recommended by Michael F. Potter, extension entomologist at University of Kentucky College of Agriculture.
- Schwarz has used the freezing method for several years successfully.
- Plastic bag recommended for finished items but not necessary for raw wood.
- Oven method uses gentle heat with a pan of water to maintain humidity.
- Freezing preserves wood's moisture content, keeping it green.
- Schwarz has not yet tested the oven method.
- Article published on Lost Art Press blog on July 27, 2026.
Entities
Artists
- Christopher Schwarz
Institutions
- University of Kentucky College of Agriculture
- Lost Art Press