Stem to strip
After 4-5 years the bamboo stems are ready for harvest. This is very fast compared to(tropical) hardwoods and one of the main reasons why bamboo is ecological. After harvesting the stems are split lengthwise to strips and the outer skin (bark) is removed. Naturally, the strips have a light yellow color (natural), but can they be steamed to acquire a light brown color (caramel). Alternatively, the can be thermally treated to acquire a dark brown color (chocolate).