A simple regressive staining method for crosscut wood surfaces is described. Phloroglucinol-hydrochloric acid serves as stain; flowing water and a solution of sodium carbonate are used for development and fixation of a picture showing the differences of absorption. Hydrophobic zones and, contrary to this, zones with a high water content can also be shown. Comparing green spruce wood before and during drying, the formation of a "secondary heart" became visible. The staining method is useful for solving practical questions and for tests with spruce. It is applicable to other wood species if these show similar differences in absorption.

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