Spile Size

[Johnjenner]

Getting back into sugaring after being out for over 40 years. Amazed at how much has changed. Decided to use mainly 5/16 tap and 5 gallon bucket with tubing running into them. Had an old timer with me today and he mentioned that he only uses 5/16 taps on smaller taps he uses 7/16 on the larger trees. I asked him why he didnt use all 5/16 everywhere and he said if you use them on the large trees You will get much less sap production. I never heard that! Thoughts?

[VTnewguy]

I wouldn't use the 7/16 for the health of your trees. Will heal much faster with the 5/16. less sap? maybe but at what cost?

[DrTimPerkins]

On gravity, 5/16” spouts produce 5-10% less sap than 7/16” spouts, but make a 50% smaller wound.

http://www.uvm.edu/~pmrc/smallspout.pdf

[Johnjenner]

Great article. Thanks so much

[Johnjenner]

Dr. Tim, do You know of any articles on tapping trees for maximum sap production

[DrTimPerkins]

Dr. Tim, do You know of any articles on tapping trees for maximum sap production

Not yet. A guide is on my list to do before I retire. Am speaking on the topic tomorrow at the Southern Syrup Research Symposium in WV. Just got here an hour ago.

[Johnjenner]

Sure wish i wasnt 1000 miles away

[Michael Greer]

I switched from 7/16 to 5/16 over the last few years. I don't notice any reduction in sap production. What I DO see is tap holes healing up MUCH faster, and much better.