If the bark becomes loose or bark scales start to come off, then you should remove the tap. With natural taps, though, you still need to be sure to practice hygiene and proper storage techniques, as the changes in the environment may create mold or bacteria on the tap.Īdditionally, the type of tree will matter – some trees are more delicate or prone to disease, so it is important to keep a close eye on how long the tap has been in and how the tree is responding. If you are using a more natural tap such as one made out of wood, clay, or even stone, then you have some more freedom to leave the tap in the tree for longer without the risk of damaging the tap. Plastic taps in particular have the potential to warp and break over time, with the sun being a major culprit of this. This is because the material has the potential to become corroded or even compromised due to the shifting conditions of tree bark and sap. If you want to use a metal or plastic tap, then it is generally recommended not to leave them in for extended periods of time. This depends on the type of tree and the kind of tap you want to use. If done properly, the maple tree can be tapped with minimal damage done to the tree. It is important to remember that in order to ensure the tree’s health, a tree must be allowed at least four to five years between taps. Tapping a small maple tree can help ensure a good crop of sap is collected. This sap then needs to be collected and processed. In order to do this, a small 2-4 inch hole is drilled into the tree’s bark with an auger.įrom there a spile, or a metal tube, is inserted into the tree and left to collect the sap as it runs down. This liquid, which is also referred to as maple syrup, is collected in buckets or plastic bags which are attached to trees.īecause maple syrup is so valuable, it’s important to tap trees properly in order to harvest the sap in the most efficient manner possible. The process of tapping a maple tree is done in early spring as the temperatures start to rise and the sap starts to move inside the tree. The sap is actually a sugary water similar to a kind of juice and traditionally has many uses. Tapping a small maple tree typically involves creating a small hole in the tree’s bark in order to collect its sap. The syrup is then filtered and bottled for consumer use, and is commonly used on pancakes, waffles, and other breakfast foods. Sap flows freely from the tree during the spring thaw, and is boiled for hours to reduce the water content and thicken the syrup. The Sugar Maple is tapped in the early spring at the base of the trunk, usually before the buds begin to open. Maple syrup production requires trees that are at least 30 years old, but preferably 40 to 60. The tree grows best in climates with cold winters and hot summers, and it grows best in well-drained soil. The Sugar Maple is native to Eastern Canada and Eastern United States, but can be cultivated elsewhere in the world. The Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) is the maple tree of choice for maple syrup production. Researching and understanding the possibilities can help you make an informed decision. Ultimately, the choice of which type of maple tree to tap is up to you. Remember to observe any local regulations for tapping trees on public or private property, or on any protected or endangered trees. Depending on where you are located, the climate and soil quality can affect the sap production of certain species.Īnother consideration is to think about where the tree is located in order to access it for tapping. It is a good idea to research what trees produce the highest quality syrup in your area. The most common type of maple tapped for syrup is the sugar maple, but other varieties like the black, red and silver maples can also be tapped. The best trees to tap are healthy and are not displaying signs of distress. Generally, it is best to choose a maple tree that is at least 10 inches in diameter, as trees this size contain the most sap.īefore tapping, you should also inspect the tree for signs of disease or damage. Choosing the right maple tree to tap can be tricky, as there are many varieties of maple to choose from.
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