How long should firewood sit before splitting?

Green rounds are easier to split soon after cutting, so there is little reason to wait. If the wood has already been seasoned by a supplier, it can be split at any point, though it will be harder work than green timber. What matters more is the time between splitting and burning, since split wood needs several months of open-sided storage to finish drying.

Can I split firewood with a normal axe?

A felling axe will split small, straight-grained pieces, and it jams in anything larger. Tell the two apart by looking at the head from the top: a felling axe is thin and flat behind the edge, while a splitting axe or maul widens sharply into thick cheeks. Those cheeks are what push the timber apart once the edge is in.

What size should split firewood be for a wood heater?

As a general guide, aim for pieces around 100 to 150 mm across, and at least 50 mm shorter than the internal width of the firebox so they sit flat without touching the sides. Check your heater's manual, since maximum log length varies. A mix of sizes burns better than a stack of identical pieces, because the smaller ones get the fire established.

Is Jarrah firewood hard to split by hand?

Seasoned Jarrah is one of the harder Australian hardwoods to split by hand, because it is dense and its grain frequently interlocks rather than running straight. A maul, a good chopping block and steel wedges make it manageable. Marri is generally more forgiving, which is one reason mixed-species loads split more easily than straight Jarrah.

Is it safe to split firewood inside a tyre?

Used carefully, yes, and it saves bending down to reset pieces after every swing. Cut one sidewall out so the rubber does not sit above the timber, keep the tyre sitting on top of the chopping block, and replace it when the rubber starts to split. Never use a tyre still mounted on a rim.

Does Little Loads deliver firewood that is ready to burn?

Yes. Our Jarrah and mixed-species firewood is seasoned before it is sold and is delivered cut to length, so most of a load can go straight into the firebox. Many customers split a portion of each delivery into smaller pieces and kindling, and burn the rest as it arrives.

When Is the Best Time to Mulch Your Garden in Perth?

Little Loads

5 days ago

2 min read

Keeping your garden healthy through a Perth summer can be challenging. Hot temperatures, dry conditions and sandy soil can cause moisture to disappear quickly, leaving plants struggling to thrive. One simple way to protect your garden is by adding a layer of mulch. But when is the best time to mulch your garden in Perth, and how can you get the most out of it?

The Best Time to Mulch in Perth

For most Perth gardens, spring is an excellent time to apply mulch, ideally before the hottest weather arrives. Adding mulch in late winter or spring helps prepare garden beds for summer by reducing moisture loss and protecting plant roots from temperature extremes.

However, mulching isn't limited to one season. You can refresh your mulch whenever your garden needs it, including autumn, when cooler conditions can make gardening more comfortable.

The key is to apply mulch before your soil becomes excessively dry and your plants begin showing signs of heat stress.

Why Is Mulch Important for Perth Gardens?

Perth's sandy soils can drain water quickly, making it difficult for plants to retain the moisture they need. Mulch provides several benefits that help your garden cope with local conditions.

1. Helps retain soil moisture

Mulch reduces evaporation from the soil surface, helping your garden stay moist for longer between watering sessions.

2. Protects plant roots from heat

During Perth's hot summers, exposed soil can become extremely warm. A layer of mulch helps moderate soil temperatures and protects plant roots from temperature fluctuations.

3. Helps suppress weeds

Mulch blocks sunlight from reaching many weed seeds, reducing the number of weeds that establish in your garden beds.

4. Improves soil over time

Organic mulches gradually break down, adding organic matter to the soil. Combined with suitable soil conditioners and compost, this can help support healthier garden beds over time.

Where Can You Buy Mulch in Perth?

Whether you're refreshing a small garden bed or preparing your entire backyard for summer, choosing the right mulch can make garden maintenance easier.

At Little Loads, we supply garden and landscaping materials from our High Wycombe yard, with delivery available throughout Perth metro. Our range includes mulch, soil, compost and other garden essentials to help you prepare and maintain your outdoor space.

Planning ahead before summer arrives can help your garden stay healthier through Perth's warmer months.

Ready to refresh your garden? Explore the range of garden supplies at Little Loads or get in touch for help choosing the right materials for your next project.