The time to tap maple trees is when daytime temperatures range between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Here in southern New Hampshire, this usually occurs after Washington's Birthday in February to early April. Sugar maple trees have the highest sugar content in the sap, but the more common red maple also can be used. The sap from the red maple tree will take longer to boil the water out and make syrup. Select trees at least twelve inches in diameter, a maple tree this size can carry one tap hole.
Trees sixteen inches in diameter can carry two taps.
Trees twenty-two inches or more can carry three taps. Make sure to drill at a slight upward slant so the sap will easily drip from the end of the spout. The new tap hole should not be closer than twelve inches above or below previous holes. Also, the hole should be at least six inches away laterally from a previous tap hole. Insert a bucket hook on the spout.