Tree Selection
For the hobbyist, several types of maples can be tapped: sugar, black, red, silver or Norway. Sugar and black maples are the best; however, red maples are also used to some extent commerically. Select trees with large canopies with trunks greater than 31 inches in circumference (10 inches diameter). Avoid trees that are not vigorous or that have large defects. These trees will produce low sugar content sap and may be excessively stressed by tapping.
