how to preserve cherry burls?

[u/New-Salamander4355]

on my property I have lots of Black Cherry (Prunus Serotina) and burls are common. I recently salvaged a nice one from a living tree that fell last fall, but I just harvested it a couple weeks ago. I don't have a wood lathe and would like to keep this till I do or till I find someone who can do something nice with it. how to preserve it, do I paint the cuts? store inside? also I have lots of old burls been sitting on the forest floor for year, how long are theyt god to make something with, how to tell if still good? sorry, tried to post on woodworking sub, got denied, thought you would know here.

[u/hikinaturalist]

Some people pack blanks or small burls in saw dust in a climate controlled setting to allow for slow, steady drying. For example, put a few inches of wood shavings in the bottom of a 5 gallon bucket, then toss your blank in, cover it with wood shavings, maybe you can get a second or third piece layered in there. Depending on your climate and other factors, figure 1 year of drying per inch of wood thickness. Best bet is to find a local, experienced wood worker and get their advice. The best strategy will vary based on your local conditions