The ultimate way to secure your 5/16" lateral lines to the end tree; no “dead” area in the tubing for bacteria to grow.
 
The 5/16" lateral line tubing slides through the ring, and continues around the backside of the maple tree. It then installs over the aggressive barbs of the fitting that lines up straight with the two stage spout plug. The remaining barbed fitting that faces straight up toward the sky is for the drop line to attach to. This system keeps the loop of plastic tubing that wraps around the tree live for additional drop lines to be added on a multiple tap, larger maple tree. And the ring can be slid further away from the maple tree, in order to add tension, as necessary, to the 5/16" lateral line.
 
During installation it is important to tighten the end ring to the maple tree.

Leader End Ring for 5/16" Lateral Lines