Archive for the ‘Tree Tapping’ Category
Tapping a Maple Tree
Posted in Tree Tapping on March 22, 2012| Leave a Comment »
All the trees are tapped
Posted in Tree Tapping on March 5, 2011| Leave a Comment »
Tree tapping for the 2011 season at Windswept Maples Farm was completed today. This year’s total number of taps is 6070, which is an increase of approximately 600 taps from the previous season. At our farm, the majority of maple trees have only a single tap per tree, which means around 5900 trees are actually in production. Studies have shown that for trees on a vacuum system, increasing the number of taps on a tree does not result in a significant increase in sap yield. Therefore, to maintain yields while minimizing tree damage, we generally will only drill one 5/16 inch hole in a tree under 24 inches in diameter.
With all the trees tapped, and good sugaring weather in the immediate forecast, we’re expecting a good start to the season this coming week. Stay tuned for updates on production, and information about the process of making pure maple syrup in New Hampshire.
Tapping update
Posted in Tree Tapping on March 4, 2010| Leave a Comment »
The last weekend in February was a busy one here at Windswept Maples Farm. With the help of some good friends and neighbors we tapped over 1500 trees in two days, bringing us close to full operation.
The tree tapping process at the start of the season requires a few trusted tools and a keen eye. A fresh 5/16″ hole must be drilled in a maple tree every year for the sap to run when the days are warm and nights drop below freezing. This year we headed out with our cordless drills and hammers, as well as extra tubing and fittings for any repairs.
Our process for tapping a tree begins with a quick examination of the tree trunk in order to locate old tap holes. It is important to find a spot for the new tap that is 6-8 inches away from any old holes. This maximizes sap flow and minimizes the damage to the tree. Once a fresh spot is found, the new hole is drilled at a slight upward angle, about an inch and a half into the trunk. The plastic spout that connects to the tubing line is then tapped firmly into place and we move on to the next tree on the line.
Tree Tapping in progress
Posted in Tree Tapping on February 26, 2010| 2 Comments »
The sugaring season has started early this year. A stretch of warm weather allowed us to start tapping on February 13th. Click the link below to see photos from one of our maple orchards.
Sugar Orchard Views Feb. 20, 2010
Windswept Maples Farm 