Spalting describes wood that has been allowed to begin the initial stages of decay. This is what gives the wood patches of color and dark streaks where white rot fungi has begun to attack it. When harvested and dried at the correct time, the spalting process stops - leaving an amazing patchwork of colors and lines in the wood. Once the wood has been kiln dried, any remaining fungi spores in it are fully neutralized - rendering the wood stable and safe for use.