Removing taps left in from previous season.

[craigwade2005]

I have the opportunity to tap a new sugarbush this season that has been previously tapped. I’ll be replacing all lines and drops and starting fresh.
My issue is the previous individual just called it quits and left all the taps in at the end of the season and walked away. Will the tree have enough time to heal before the freeze if I pull the taps now or would I be better off just leaving the spouts in? Thanks.

[DrTimPerkins]

How long ago were the taps left in place? How much have the spouts left in place grown over? What kind of spouts (plastic, metal, 7/16" or 5/16")? Photos might help.

If it was just this past season or last year, pull them. If you have to damage any new growth around the outside of the spout, maybe cut or snap them off (if they are plastic) or leave them in.

[craigwade2005]

Plastic spouts left in from either last year or 2 years prior.
Sounds like breaking them off may be the best bet if they look grown in at all.
I'll try for some photos the next time I am up there.

[DrTimPerkins]

If it's only been a year or two I'd try pulling them out.

If they are really stuck, cut them off as close to the bark as possible with a pair of snips.