sap sugar content

[nhdog]

looking over last years sap report survey got me to wondering, what are the main contributors to the sugar content each year? it seems that even in the same general areas there was a large difference in the reporting.

[DrTimPerkins]

Some of what controls sap sugar content (SSC) is genetic, some is environmental. Genetics play a role in dictating the maximum SSC, and most environmental factors tend to reduce the level from there. So a tree that is genetically programmed to have a max of 3% SSC will essentially never produce 4%.

Tree size and canopy position is a big factor...the more exposed the crown, the more light hits the leaves, the faster the photosynthetic engine runs, the more sugar is made and in the sap. Big dominant trees and open-grown trees tend to have the highest SSC.

Time of season is important. In fall and winter, SSC tends to be low. In the spring it peaks, then falls off.

Several studies have shown that nutrition is important. Again, it's a matter of the photosynthetic engine running well. Good nutrition is like high octane fuel.

Then there is the matter of weather/climate/biological stresses. All are important, and as mentioned, if not optimal, tend to drive SSC downward. The relationships are not especially strong, but they are detectible. We have a nearly 40 yr record of SSC at PMRC, and have assembled a large dataset of different variables we think could affect SSC. I've spoken on it a few times at various meetings, but no PPT or video is available yet. Typically things like adequate moisture in the fall, winter and spring are good. Drought and delayed fall/winter cool temperatures are not good. More to come as we dig deeper into the data.

[nhdog]

thanks Dr. Tim.
i always understood the tree size and canopy played a large roll, but i guese there are a lot of other factors that we just don't have that much more control over that matters.

i also now know why some of my trees i tap have never produced, genetics, it just not in their genes.

[therealtreehugger]

Is there a difference in sugar maples from different areas? As in VT, vs. CT, vs. WI, ??? does elevation make a difference? I know there are really too many variables to scientifically compare, no two maples are the same, but I hear a lot about ssc in VT being higher than southern CT (where I am). Although most of my trees have been in wooded areas and have smaller canopies, and last I checked, ssc = 1.5-2.0 brix, I will be expanding to include maples with more space and canopies this year, and hope they have a higher ssc.

[maple flats]

Genetics play a big part, but canopy likely has more of an influence on SSC.

[buckeye gold]

All I know is I see these reports of 2.5-3% and higher. Most years I average 1.5-1.6% and occasionally see a few days of 2%, if I ever saw anything over 2% I might faint or look for an empty sugar bag .....surely someone would be messing with me. I hope Those who have 2.5% and higher realize how blessed they are.

[ir3333]

Great question.It seems hot sunny weather in the summer should produce best.I bought a sap hydrometer
and can hardly wait to check this year..one maple in particular that stands alone in my neighbours front yard.It is a
solid six feet across and has a canopy bigger than the farm house.I only put 2 taps in it each year.I have taken over
12 gallons of sap from this tree in one day. Two - 3 gallon pails overflowing at noon and again at 6 pm on one occasion.
My neighbour wants me to put in 8 or 10 taps but i don't want to harm this tree in any way, shape or form and use 1/4" taps.

[therealtreehugger]

All I know is I see these reports of 2.5-3% and higher. Most years I average 1.5-1.6% and occasionally see a few days of 2%, if I ever saw anything over 2% I might faint or look for an empty sugar bag .....surely someone would be messing with me. I hope Those who have 2.5% and higher realize how blessed they are.

Buckeye - I am in the same boat as you with ssc!!!

[4 Paws Sugar Shack]

I'm 90% reds with a few sugars on the roadside of our property. We have a stand of sugars behind my work we tap but every tree is new to my wife and I. We are hoping the sugars make up the difference this year. But our woods are crowded and need thinning. We hope to at least see 2% as a high

[Pdiamond]

You should switch out those 3 gallon pails to five gallon buckets.