Elm Tree Advice

[BrokenArrow]

I have an elm tree that is about 12 inches in diameter. It is just freshly cut and I sealed the ends.
When should I split this and how long to dry with or without splitting?
When does the bark come off?

[Pat B]

I would split it in half now and get it in a protected location off the ground. After a month or so you can reduce it to staves. It could take a year or more to dry unless you reduce it to almost bow size.
 Being that you cut it during the growing season the bark should peel relatively easily.

[Poggins]

Get the bark off ASAP , mold will start to get it and you will end up with firewood .

[JonW]

Good advice from Pat. I would add that don't split it down smaller than 4" wide staves for now. Elm has a tendency to warp if split too small from my experience.

[BrokenArrow]

So what is the best way to take the bark off?
Do I need to be careful to not violate what is just below the bark?

[Pat B]

You should be able to work a screw driver or wood chisel under the bark at one end and work it off rom there. If it comes off easily there is no reason the back should be violated.