The chances of you knowing the steps to use a tree spile are low, but what if I call it “collecting tree sap”? A tree spile is a gear fixed into a hole dug in a tree to collect sap. A spile is a hollow tube that directs tree sap into a bucket for collection instead of allowing the sap drip down the tree bark.
You must have seen someone do this, have you? If you haven’t, it’s still okay.
There are various reasons for collecting sap from a tree. This liquid can be used as a medicinal concoction &, more importantly, water when there’s none to drink.
What Should You Know About Using a Tree Spile?
The first rule to follow when collecting sap is the edibility of the tree. Not every tree can be tapped. Maples & birches are generally healthy for you. If you want more, you should conduct a study of the trees around you before deciding.
When the tree is chosen, a regular sap collector can use a spile with his eyes closed. Ensure that the tools listed below are all on ground:
- Knife, drill bit, or a spike that can be used to dig a hole in the tree;
- Spile itself;
- Collection container, which could be a water bottle, cup, or just whatever will catch & keep the sap.
- Cordage: Sometimes, you may need cordage to hold your container in place.
- Impact tool: This is a heavy tool that you’ll use to get the spile in the hole. This can be a hammer, butt of a knife, or a strong branch.
5 Steps to Use a Tree spile
Step One
Peel off a small part of the bark, ensuring you’re careful enough to take off only space for the spile. Conservation should be in your mind, given that the tree is giving something helpful. Ensure to take only what you need so the tree can remain healthy for as long as possible.
Step Two
Drill a hole in the tree for the spile to go into. This should be ideally done with a drill. But in its absence (most people fail to carry a drill), you can use a spiked tomahawk or the tip of a sturdy knife.
Step Three
Remove some loose debris from what you’ve dug & put in the spile, making sure the front end is slightly angled downward. This doesn’t mean that the spile has to be extremely slight. All that’s necessary is a slope that’ll easily pass sap to the container in place. Now, using a piece of wood or butt of a knife, position the spile firmly in the hole.
You don’t have to hammer the spile in, but it should be resting firmly in the hole. This way, it will hold the weight of your collection container.
Step Four
Hang your container down the spile or just drop on the ground. You only need to ensure the sap is getting into the container.
Step Five
When you’re done using the hole, fill it with dirt or clay to prevent the tree from getting infected.
Concluding the Steps to Use a Tree Spile
Obviously, the steps to use a tree spile are easy to follow. There’s nothing difficult in this, although you can experience troubles on your first trial. A little patience gets the job done.