have been reading about how to make black powder and it seems light woods like willow are the best for making the charcoal. I don't have any willow trees but lots of boxelders and they sure are no good for firewood. I've got the sulphur powder and stump remover now I just have to make the powdered charcoal. I was going to cut some and season it for charcoal cook once summer heat breaks. or do you cook it off green?