Hi -

Been lurking for a few months and had hopes of tapping some gum trees (about 20) this year in Central/Southern Maryland (Southern Anne Arundel County). New baby and general lack of knowledge on when to do it prevented me from taking the plunge this year, but would like to prepare for next year. I have a couple of regional/tree specific questions that I haven't seen clear answers for:

I'd like to tap about 20 gum trees on my property, using ~5 foot lengths of tubing into milk jugs to start. Anyone else in my area tap gum trees? How about Black Walnut (I have several of those too). Success or lack thereof?

When? I know the standard answer of when temps go from freezing at night to above freezing in the day, but in our area, that can be nearly the whole winter. Is there a particular date range for this area that is more specific?

Brent