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I have two spindly stands of maple trees in my yard. They’re not much to look at, but they provide a natural buffer to our busy front street and offer some much-needed shade during the summer. For a long time, I’ve wondered whether this puny patch of forest could be made more productive.
Earlier this spring, I finally embarked on a long-awaited experiment: street-side maple syrup!
I was emboldened to try backyard tree tapping after writing a story about the hobby last year, and am pleased to report it was as simple as described.
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At least the collecting was. I have yet to do the actual syrup processing, but the preliminary results have exceeded my expectations — especially considering this year’s syrup season had a slow start thanks to lingering cold temperatures.
A pail full of that will hopefully become edible homegrown maple syrup. (Eva Wasney / Winnipeg Free Press)
Before the end of the season, I managed to collect a few gallons of usable sap from one stand of trees. With a sap-to-syrup ratio of 40:1, I should come away with at least a smidge of syrup. The aforementioned expectations are really low. I’ll be happy if I can rustle up even a tablespoon of liquid — it is an experiment, after all!
I borrowed a series of tubes and taps (similar to this) from a family member, but less complicated systems are widely available. Arborist Ken Fosty is a great local resource for equipment and information about tapping Manitoba maples.
Readers of this newsletter might recall last year’s dandelion syrup trial, in which I turned a basket of weeds into a few jars of flavourful, simple syrup. I’ve been growing vegetables for the last few years, but making use of the naturally occurring flora in my yard has been a fun side quest.
My sap collection is currently sitting in the freezer and I’m looking forward to spending the weekend watching a pot boil on the barbecue. Wish me luck! And let me know if you’ve had any success with backyard tree tapping.
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