03/14/2026
What do we mean by tapping? Well, we drill a hole into the tree, insert a spile, and tap it in! Sound simple, right?!
In theory, it is simple, however, there are a lot of parts to consider before we ever drill the hole.
1️⃣ Is the tree alive and healthy? No sap is flowing in a hollow or dead tree.
2️⃣ Where has the tree been tapped before? We don't want to drill above, beside, or below a previous tap hole.
3️⃣ Make sure to not drill too deep or too shallow, about 1.5 inches. It also needs to the correct diameter sized bit in the drill. We are not wanting to hurt the trees!
4️⃣ Check the type of wood chips that are coming from drilling. If it is dry wood, you tap hole is no good.
5️⃣ Tap the spile in just the right amount. Too loose and the spile will leak, losing precious sap. Too tight and good luck getting them out at the end of the season!
6️⃣ Celebrate! You survived tapping a tree! Now, a few thousand more to go! You can do it!
