If this has already been discussed just re-direct me to the thread.
Does dropping barometric pressure increase sap flow?
If this has already been discussed just re-direct me to the thread.
Does dropping barometric pressure increase sap flow?
10 X 16 Sugar Shack
2 x 4 Evaporator
100+ taps/adding every year
6 4-wheelers (barrel transporters)
6 Saplings/Sap Haulers(kids)
1 Quality Control Supervisor (Wife)
My hubby and I were just wondering about this the other day because it seems like the days we have had the better sap flows (when the proper freeze/warming conditions are met first) are when rain is forecast. Rain usually means a drop in the barometer. I found this link that may explain it though you'll have to make some inferences.
http://www.massmaple.org/sap.php
In order for sap to flow the pressure in the tree must be higher than the atmospheric pressure. If enough tree pressure exists for sap to flow then a drop in the barometer increases the difference between the tree and the atmosphere with the tree pressure winning. Under those conditions it would make sense that sap will flow better when the atmospheric pressure is lower, again assuming all the other conditions needed for sap flow are met first.
Next year I'm going to try to keep better track of weather conditions including barometric readings.
Yes it helps. This is why vacuum in tubing makes a difference. It artificially creates a pressure drop between inside the tree and in the tubing.
Andy's Own Maple
Andy Kinter (4th + generation maple producer)
Approx 790 taps on vacuum
3x10 nat. gas fired raised flue small bros.
600 gph Lapierre RO
Fine collection of used bulk tanks
Kubota MX5100 sap hauler
2 hives (that I don't spend enough time on)
A great family that works together to make syrup!
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Andys...27718203945398
http://photobucket.com/mapleack
We have a weather station(you can get them at Walmart, even though I hate that place) or on-line) Ours can get info onto our computer, but it's wall mounted and I just keep writing down the readings. Also try NOAA weather for your location, gives the best forecast. Happy sapping! It's finally running here! Montgomery County, NY