I often visit Burlington, ON so every once in awhile we drop into Lee Valley Tools. Recently, I saw this “Backyarder’s Maple Syrup Starter Kit” and thought that is a good idea. But then again what do I know, I have been in a lot of sugar bushes, but never tapped a tree. A bit of education is needed before messing with a maple.
I found an informative video online from the University of Maine that gave simple and clear guidance, beginning with the size of tree that can be tapped. The size is important for the ongoing health of the tree which must be at least 10-12 inches (25-30 centimetres) in diameter at heart (chest) – height.
Use a cordless drill to make the hole. Use a 5/16-inch drill bit for most spigots or taps but check before drilling. Ensure the drill-bit is clean, sharp and fit for use with food. Mark the 5/16-inch bit at 1 ½ inches to garner the depth. Position the drill so the hole in the trunk is sloping downward slightly to ease the flow of sap.
Make sure the hole is clean before inserting the spigot (tap), resist blowing into the hole, use a twig instead to clean out any bits of trunk or sap wood. Then use a hammer to gently tap the spigot into the tree. Remember the tree may be frozen and prone to splitting, so gentle tapping is important.
Hang a clean food grade receptacle (bucket) on the spigot to catch sap and remember to have a lid or cover on the receptacle to keep unwanted stuff out.
What’s next? Stay tuned for tools useful in the sugar shack!
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