What to do when removing taps....

[ShLUbY]

Am I correct in thinking that there is no need to plug any of the tap holes in the tree when it's time to remove the taps for the season? I feel like I remember reading somewhere that the tree will just heal itself over the course of a few weeks... Thanks in advance!

[DrTimPerkins]

Do not plug them. Leave them open. Plugging them will hold water in the taphole, leading to more rot. The tree can heal itself just fine (actually better) without a plug than with it. If they are small spouts (5/16"), they will grow over within a growing season or two.

[happy thoughts]

yes, don't do anything. The hole may be visible for a long time to come especially if you used larger taps, but that's normal so don't worry.