Running Without Freeze

[GSCampChris]

Hello,
We are having a great time with our new tubing and vacuum systems this year. We have already almost doubled our 2017 yield, and have 100 less taps. BUT we don’t have another freeze in the extended forecast and are looking at 60s and 70s a few times. We had a good freeze last night. How long will sap run on vacuum without a freeze? Anything to watch for?


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[minehart gap]

Earlier this year (January 20 thru 23) the air temperature did not drop below freezing but my taps never stopped running. It's based on tree temperature not air temperature.

Although, it didn't reach 60 degrees then only mid 40's

Best of luck.

[DrTimPerkins]

Under vacuum you will continue to get some sap (depending on your vacuum level), but the sugar content will steadily drop off over several days.

[sugarwoodacres]

What type of vacuum set up ?

[DrTimPerkins]

The higher the vacuum the more you'll get. Low vacuum probably won't do it. Moderate vacuum will get you low flow. High vacuum will get a decent flow. Basically at that point you're pulling water right up out of the soil through the tree roots and stem and out the taphole. That's why the sugar level drops off over time slowly as the sugar is depleted. It takes another freeze to recharge the tree with liquid and to convert more starch into sugar.

[Haynes Forest Products]

Lets not forget the effect bacteria levels have down the road.