To identify a maple tree follow a maple tree identification guide . Any maple tree will work, as will other kinds of trees. Just be sure to check that your tree variety will work for syrup production.

The specific taps I purchased were from kaitoridge.com . They also have an excellent written guide on tapping maple trees on their homepage. I used the instructions that came with their taps. I think their items can be found on ebay or Amazon.

I use my wood stove to boil off most of the water from the sap before finally finishing off the final boil. I save the almost finished syrup in a mason jar where I let the sugar particles and other impurities settle from the syrup.