In this episode we talk about the often-elusive question: When can I start tapping my Maple trees?

We start by examining the process by which Maple trees produce maple sap. We then answer the questions: if I tap too early will my taps dry out and plug up? If I start too late, how much sap will I miss out on?

We discuss when the average start time is for the Maple sugaring season at different latitudes.

We also talk about how the commercial Maple syrup producers handle the variable timing of the Maple sugaring season.

We wrap up our conversation by suggesting several key tips and tricks for optimizing your sugaring season, as well as tips from the “old-timers” on what to look for in nature to tell you when to start your tapping season.

Don’t miss this episode jam-packed with helpful information!

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Links to the supplies I use and recommend for making Maple Syrup as well as Free resources and ebooks on making Maple Syrup:

Sugar Maple Tree Fact Sheet (Godman, Yawney, Tubbs):

https://d32ogoqmya1dw8.cloudfront.net/files/eslabs/weather/sugar_maple_fact_sheet.pdf

How does sap flow out of Maple Trees (Wilmot, 2009):

https://mapleresearch.org/wp-content/uploads/wilmot_underpressure.pdf

The Timing of Tapping for Maple Sap Collection (Wilmot, 2008):

https://mapleresearch.org/wp-content/uploads/0608tappingtiming.pdf

Finding the sweet spot: Shifting optimal climate for maple syrup production in North America (Rapp et al., 2019):

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378112719303019#f0005

Thanks for Listening to the:

How to Make Maple Syrup Podcast

Episode 014

Podcast Host: Richard Tomlinsen