Seasoning time for downed wood

[barkeatr]

i just cut into a pile of maple, beech and cherry that have been on the landing for a year. I split them and did moisture test..it averaged 27 %....I cant recall what freshly fallen logs are moisture wise but it has to be 35-45%. so to answer your question yes it will take less time, except maybe for logs sitting on the ground.

 

[Woody Stover]

I've been cutting oak right now, splitting and stacking it. I expect to be able to burn it 12-13 season. I also have elm and maple that I'm working on and mixing in my stacks. I believe anything I get css by May will be ready for next season, especially if I go FIFO on my stacks. I estimate I'll have six full cords ready by the end of April and be ready for burning next fall.

In your situation, I would keep the Elm and Maple separate from the Oak rather than stacking FIFO. The Oak might be a real chore to burn after only one Summer, but the Elm and Maple should be further along.