Using natural wood

[guppyboy]

I am new to using natural materials in a fresh water tank. I have an abundance of Craep Mrytle limbs since doing my spring trimming. Can i use this wood in my tanks and if so, i need suggestions on preparing this wood.

I think it would look alot like drift wood. Any help would be appreciated !!!!!

 

[jcolon]

I'm not familiar with that plant / tree but basically, you want to avoid softwoods like Conifers, Pine etc. Their wood tends to rot away quicker and it's full of sap that you don't want in water. Hardwood's the best.

Then the trick is to get it to sink! Boiling helps to open up the wood fibers to release tannins and soak in water. It may takes days to weeks to get wood to sink ... but you can always either screw it onto a piece of slate, or pin it under rocks. Eventually it'll waterlog and stay submerged.