Question
After the maple syrup season is done and I am ready to remove the tap what do I need to do with the hole in the tree? None of the how to sites address the issue of the tree after tapping only what to do with the sap. Thank you for your help.
Cindy

Answer
Simply remove the tap, so the tree can heal over.
The tree will heal the wound and next year try not to use the same area when the new tap is inserted. Remove all the spiles, buckets and lids from the mapletrees when the season is over. Tap holes will heal naturally over time. The spiles, buckets and lids shouldbe scrubbed thoroughly with a bleach solution (one part bleach to 19 parts water) and rinsed with hot water