How long after you tap a maple tree will your bucket be full of sap?

The time it takes for a bucket to fill with sap after tapping a maple tree can vary significantly based on several factors, including the size of the tree, temperature fluctuations, and sap flow conditions. Typically, a bucket can fill within a few hours to a few days during peak sap flow, which usually occurs in late winter to early spring. On warm days, when temperatures rise above freezing, sap flow increases dramatically, leading to quicker fills. However, it's important to monitor the bucket regularly, as the flow can vary daily.