This photo comes from Ed in Nova Scotia. At this time of the year, spiles and maple syrup collection buckets are a familiar sight on many trees in the province.
Ed writes: “I’m sending a picture that I took today which depicts the true signs of spring in Nova Scotia. I am right in the midst of the maple syrup season and yesterday the weather conditions were perfect and I had my boiler going all night so sleep played second fiddle.”
Note Added Later: Here is a good article on tapping [link no longer available]. dP was asking me questions about it earlier; so, it’s kind of funny that I found this article in the Herald a few hours later.
Ed : Looks like you have a great property there for getting sap. Do you produce sirup commercially or just for your own use?
Bob, we have 21.5 acres that have many mature sugar maple trees. I put out 100 taps and over the past 15 years I have produced an average of 75 liters per year. I supply the local co-op and a bakery in the village. It is my very special hobby that dates back to my early childhood in Victoria Vale which was an annual event practiced by my mom and dad each spring. To us the tapping of trees was the first signs of spring.
Good for you Ed. It’s a lot of work producing sirup. You probably make some maple sugar candy also.
Bob, I do make maple sugar and as well maple butter that is a spread for spreading on your toast with a good cup of Just Us coffee. In addition at Christmas I make around 10 dozen maple cream chocolates that is a favourite of all the family. If in our area try and come in for a visit.
Here is a good article on tapping from the Halifax Herald:
http://www.herald.ns.ca/Front/491066.html
Mmmmmmm… maple butter… (Homer Simpson voice).