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Supplies for Making Maple Syrup

Beside the obvious maple trees, you'll need a few supplies to tap into nature's bounty and reap some fresh maple syrup for pancakes, baking and other sweetening needs. Do not tap into maple trees unless they are at least 10 inches in diameter and 4-1/2 feet tall. Trees between 10 and 20 inches in diameter should only have one tap per tree; trees between 20 inches and 25 inches in diameter can sustain two taps; larger trees can support three taps.

Supplies
- A few easily obtained supplies will get your maple syrup from tree to table. You will need a non-allergenic, food-grade material spout for each tree tap. Use a portable drill and a 7/16-inch drill bit to drill for a standard-size spout. A metal or plastic bucket with a lid keeps out debris and rainwater. Sanitized gallon milk jugs with a hole carved in the side also work instead of purchasing buckets. Additional supplies include a large pot to boil down the sap; The pot should be at least 8 inches deep. In addition, you'll need a candy thermometer that measures temperatures up to 230 degrees Fahrenheit and wool filters to filter the syrup while it is hot. Containers for the finished product must have a seal and be able to withstand hot temperature liquids, canning jars work well.

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