We’ve been getting the question about whether or not if we should be tapping maple trees right now in January since it is so warm. Hear what Jim had to say in his conversation with Cathy Wurzer on MPR today.
The simple answer is no. Not right now.
Maple trees have a lifespan of up to 300 years, so these trees have experienced many different and odd seasons. These January thaws do make it tempting to want to tap the trees, but there are many other factors besides just the temperatures.
Most notably, the frost in the ground is a big factor. When the ground begins to thaw, when the gravel roads begin to heave with frost boils, and when the forest ground is muddy, is the optimum time for the sap to flow.
Here is a video demonstration of how to tap a maple tree.
We look forward to you joining us for our annual tapping day here at the farm on Saturday March 9th.
