Natural cork is created as a result of the process of regenerating the bark of the cork oak (Quercus suber). Here is a general description of the process:
Planting and growth: Cork oaks are grown on plantations. About 25 years after planting, the trees are mature enough to begin the cork harvesting process.
Cork harvesting: Cork harvesting takes place every few years, usually in summer or early autumn. Before harvesting begins, the trees are marked and cleared of other vegetation to make the process easier. Collecting cork is a job done by hand by experienced workers, called corkscrews.
Removing the Bark: Corkscrews use special tools such as sharp knives and chisels to gently remove the bark from the trunk and branches of a tree. When removing the cork, it is important not to damage the living layer of tissue under the bark, called the cork bed.
Cork regeneration: Once the bark is removed from the tree, the regeneration process begins. The cork bed tissue begins to divide and reproduce new cork cells, which gradually fill the empty space left by the removed cork. This process takes about 9-12 years before the new layer of cork is thick enough to be harvested again.
Repeating the cycle: After a few years, when the new layer of cork has reached the appropriate thickness, the harvesting process is repeated. The trees can be harvested many times over their lifetime, which is a sustainable and environmentally friendly way to produce cork.
It is worth emphasizing that cork oaks are the only tree species that has the ability to regenerate the bark in this way, which makes natural cork a unique material.
The Korex International store based in Radom offers high-quality natural cork articles.We offer mail order sales, also in wholesale quantities.We provide safe transport and fast shipping of ordered products.In addition, we guarantee attractive prices and discounts.
Staromiejska Street 10A
26–600 Radom
+48 535 000 250