PaulB News

December 13, 2017

We have kits available at PaulB Hardware that will have your ready to tap for sap in no time. Tapping trees to make syrup is a great family activity.

All kinds of trees are good for tapping, including maple, box elder, pecan, walnut or birch.

The best weather conditions for tapping sap are when days are above freezing and nights are below freezing. This fluctuation in temperature helps the sap flow.

Our kits include a bucket, spile, hook, and protective lid.  The lid is important because it keeps dirt from falling into your sap. It also keeps out rain and snow, which could dilute your sap.

You will need a drill, and a 7/16th-inch drill bit.

Drill a  hole 1 1/2-inch deep into the tree trunk, upwards and at an angle so the sap drains out.

Insert the spile through the small hook, and then place the spile into the hole you drilled. Hang the bucket on the hook and make sure the spile is pointing downward toward the bucket’s opening.

Place the cover over the bucket opening, and wait for the sap to flow.

Feel free to visit our Lawn & Garden Department for more information.