Kentucky maple syrup - sweet success at blues end farm

By Blake Jackson

Nestled in the heart of Kentucky, a unique industry is tapping into tradition: maple syrup production. In February, Kentucky Maple Days shine a light on this growing trend, and one farm, Blues End Farm, is leading the charge. 

For over 15 years, Doug and Ruth Welch have transformed their love for maple syrup into a thriving business. Their journey began in the early 2000s when they started tapping the 150 maple trees on their Shelbyville property. But making maple syrup is more than just collecting sap – it's a science. 

Doug explains, "The sap only flows when the temperature swings between freezing and above freezing, creating pressure that pushes the sap up the tree. You can't miss that window – if the sap sits too long, it spoils." 

This dedication to timing translates into dedication to quality. The Welches spend countless hours collecting sap, boiling it down in their evaporator tank, and carefully monitoring the process until it reaches its final, golden form. Their efforts yield a remarkable result: it takes an astonishing 50 gallons of sap to create just one gallon of their delicious Kentucky maple syrup. 

But the Welches aren't just passionate about creating a quality product; they're passionate about sharing their love for it. This year, they're hosting a Kentucky Maple Day celebration on February 17th, open to anyone who wants to experience the magic firsthand. 

Visitors can expect guided tours of the operation, witness the syrup-making process, and indulge in delectable treats like maple syrup, baked goods, and even maple taffy on snow. Doug proudly declares, "Kentucky maple syrup is the best," and his dedication to quality and community speaks volumes. 

Beyond maple syrup, Blues End Farm offers fresh eggs year-round and U-pick blueberries in the summer. Their success story is a testament to the growing potential of Kentucky's maple syrup industry, fueled by passion, hard work, and a commitment to sharing the sweetness with others.

Photo Credit: istock-jeff-baumgart