Tapping maple trees and making your own syrup is a rewarding tradition that brings the best of the season straight to your table. Whether you're a first-time tapper or a seasoned syrup maker, these tips will help you make the most of your maple season!
When to Tap
The best time to tap maple trees is when daytime temperatures rise above freezing while nights drop below. This freeze-thaw cycle, typically in March and April, gets the sap flowing and signals the start of syrup season!
Choosing the Right Trees
Identify your maples: The best time to mark maple trees is in the fall when their leaves are still on. In winter, look for distinctive bark and branch patterns.
Tree size matters: Only tap trees that are at least 10 inches in diameter to keep them healthy and productive.
Number of taps per tree: Larger trees can handle more taps—12-20 inches in diameter = 1 tap, 21-27 inches = 2 taps, 27+ inches = 3 taps.
How to Tap
Drill a 5/16" hole about 2-2.5 inches deep on the south side of the tree, about 3 feet off the ground.
Insert the spile (tap) with a gentle hammering—sap should start dripping right away!
Hang your collection container, whether it’s a sap bag, bucket, or tubing system.
Collecting Sap
Check sap levels daily—collection rates vary with weather conditions.
Store sap properly: Keep it cold (below 38°F) and use it within a week, or freeze it if you’re not boiling right away.
It takes about 40 gallons of sap to make 1 gallon of syrup, so plan accordingly!
Boiling Down Sap
Use an evaporator or open fire to slowly reduce sap. Boiling outside is best since it produces a lot of steam.
As it nears syrup consistency (about 219°F), move it inside for the final boil.
Watch closely to prevent boiling over, and use a hydrometer to check for proper density.
Filtering & Bottling
Filter syrup while hot using a pre-filter and Orlon filter bag to remove impurities.
Pour into sterilized mason jars, where the heat will naturally seal the lids.
Store in the fridge or freezer to maintain freshness.
Bonus: Making Maple Candy
For a fun treat, boil maple syrup to 235°F, let it cool slightly, then stir until thick and creamy. Pour into silicone molds to create melt-in-your-mouth maple candy!
Get Your Supplies!
Ready to start tapping? Stop in for all your maple syrup supplies, from spiles and collection bags to filters and jars. Happy tapping and enjoy the sweet rewards of your hard work! 🍁
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