DIY Wood Chips

The last time I tried making wood chips was over 15 years ago and I remember it taking a really long time to make a small pile using your typical homeowner chipper. I can get utility trailers full for $25 from the tree service 45 mins. from here but really don't like relying on that. Who is making their own, what size chipper are you using and how much can you make in a day? Thanks.

I have come to the decision that if I want wood chips, it makes sense for me to utilize whatever an arborist will drop by rather than creating them myself. The equipment, the time, the cost, and the feedstock are all significant issues for me to deal with compared to spending the time developing relationships with the folks who already have all of that.

I have a little homeowner chipper and use it for dealing with brush but I can't imagine getting one of those large chuck and duck chippers and keeping it maintained to only use it a couple times a year. Perhaps if I had more forested property and time on my hands it would be a different story.

I can't really answer your questions because I don't use it like that.

I have this machine: https://www.homedepot.com/p/DK2-3-in-7-HP-Gas-Powered-Kohler-Engine-Direct-Drive-Certified-Commercial-Chipper-Shredder-with-Trailer-Tow-Hitch-OPC503/309364392

It doesn't really like to take something 3" in diameter, but does well with 2.5". I have a lot of wood that's that dimension, so it's OK, but knowing what I know now, I wouldn't buy it again.

I can turn a pile of branches and poles that's maybe 8x4x3 into roughly six cubic feet of chips in half an hour or an hour.

I also receive truckloads from a local tree guy because I use more than I make.

One idea is give your wood to a wood turner or other kind of woodworker in exchange for their wastes. I have been given excess wood shavings even without any exchange going on… usually when I make my own wood shavings though, it ends up going into the fire as kindling. Beavers will also produce wood chips (in small to moderate quantities) and a lot more benefit than that!

I believe Paul Wheaton has recommended using some good clippers to turn wood into mulch as opposed to chipping it, which makes sense. Or you could leave it in a pile for a year or two and then stomp it until it’s ground into to chips.