How To Plant Hops [ Full Guide ]

Hops (Humulus lupulus) are essential ingredients in the brewing of beer, imparting bitterness and aroma to the beverage. Besides their use in brewing, hops are also a beautiful addition to any garden, with their lush greenery and attractive cone-shaped flowers. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the steps and factors involved in successfully planting and cultivating hops in your garden.

Quick Answer: How To Plant Hops

Planting hops involves selecting the right variety, preparing the planting site, and choosing between seeds and rhizomes for propagation. After ensuring optimal soil, sunlight, and drainage conditions, the selected planting method is executed, followed by proper care and maintenance throughout the growth period.

Choosing The Right Variety Of Hops For Your Garden

Before delving into the nitty-gritty details of planting hops, it’s crucial to determine the variety that best suits your needs and growing environment. Some popular hop varieties include:

• Cascade: Known for its floral and citrusy aroma, Cascade hops are widely used in American-style ales and are relatively easy to grow.

• Centennial: With a balance of floral and citrus notes, Centennial hops are often used in both bittering and aromatic roles, making them a versatile choice for home brewers.

• Chinook: Boasting a distinctive pine and grapefruit aroma, Chinook hops are ideal for imparting a bold, spicy flavor to IPAs and other hop-forward beer styles.

When selecting a variety, consider your climate, available space, and brewing preferences. Additionally, choose disease-resistant and hardy varieties for optimal results.

Essential Tools And Materials For Planting Hops

To ensure success in planting hops, gather the following tools and materials:

Tools

• Shovel: For digging and aerating the soil.

• Trowel: Useful for delicate tasks like transplanting and handling young plants.

• Garden Hoe: Helps in loosening and leveling the soil.

Materials

• Hops Rhizomes or Seeds: The starting material for hop plant propagation.

• Support Structure: Such as a trellis or sturdy vertical system for the vines to climb.

• Fertilizer: High-quality, well-balanced fertilizer to support the growth of hops.

• Mulch: To help retain moisture and suppress weed growth around the plants.

Preparing The Planting Site: Soil, Sunlight, And Drainage Requirements

A crucial factor in successful hop cultivation is the selection of an appropriate planting site. Consider the following aspects when preparing the area for hop cultivation:

Soil Conditions

• Well-Drained Soil: Hops thrive in well-drained sandy loam or loamy soils. Ensure that the soil is free-draining to prevent waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.

• pH Level: Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. Conduct a soil test to determine the existing pH level and amend the soil as needed.

Sunlight

• Full Sun Exposure: Hops require ample sunlight, ideally six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. Select a location with unobstructed sun exposure for optimal growth and cone production.

Drainage

• Good Drainage: Ensure that the planting site has good natural drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot and other issues.

After assessing the soil, sunlight, and drainage conditions, it’s time to prepare the ground for planting. This involves tilling the soil to a depth of 8 to 12 inches to ensure proper aeration and root development.

Growing From Seeds Vs. Rhizomes: Pros And Cons

When it comes to starting a hop plant, growers have two primary options: planting seeds or using rhizomes. Each method comes with its own set of advantages and considerations.

Growing From Seeds

Pros

• Genetic Diversity: Growing from seeds can result in new, unique hop varieties, allowing for genetic diversification within the hop plant population.

• Lower Cost: Seeds are often more cost-effective than rhizomes, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious growers.

Cons

• Inconsistent Traits: Seeds can produce plants with varying traits, making it challenging to predict the exact characteristics of the resulting hops.

• Longer Time to Maturity: Hops grown from seeds typically take longer to reach maturity and begin producing cones compared to rhizome-grown plants.

Growing From Rhizomes

Pros

• Consistent Characteristics: Rhizomes produce plants that closely resemble the parent plant, ensuring a more predictable outcome in terms of flavor and aroma profiles.

• Faster Time to Production: Hops grown from rhizomes generally mature more quickly and start producing cones earlier in the growing season.

Cons

• Limited Availability: Certain hop varieties may only be available in the form of seeds, limiting the choice for growers who prefer rhizomes.

• Higher Upfront Cost: Rhizomes can be more expensive than seeds, requiring a greater initial investment.

Ultimately, the choice between seeds and rhizomes depends on the grower’s preferences, resources, and objectives. While seeds offer the potential for new and exciting hop varieties, rhizomes provide a more reliable and expedited path to hop production.

Planting hops involves careful consideration of variety selection, planting site preparation, and the choice between seeds and rhizomes. By understanding the requirements of hops, providing adequate support, and maintaining optimal growing conditions, gardeners can cultivate healthy hop plants that yield flavorful, aromatic cones. Whether it’s for brewing or ornamental purposes, growing hops can be a rewarding endeavor for gardeners of all skill levels. With the right knowledge and attention to detail, anyone can successfully plant and nurture these versatile and dynamic plants in their own gardens.

Step-by-Step Guide To Planting Hops From Rhizomes

Hops (Humulus lupulus) are perennial climbing plants that are primarily cultivated for their cone-like flowers, which are used in brewing beer. These flowers contain compounds that add aroma, flavor, and bitterness to the beer. If you’re a homebrewer or simply enjoy gardening, planting hops can be a rewarding experience. Hops plants are relatively easy to grow, but they require proper care and maintenance to thrive.

1. Selecting the Right Location: Hops plants require ample sunlight, ideally around 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Choose a spot in your garden that has well-drained soil with a pH level of 6.0-8.0. It’s important to note that hops plants are perennial and can grow quite large, so ensure there is sufficient space for them to climb and spread.

2. Preparing the Soil: Hops plants prefer loose and fertile soil, so it’s beneficial to amend the soil with compost or aged manure before planting. This will provide the plants with the necessary nutrients and improve drainage. Dig the soil to a depth of around 12 inches and mix in the organic matter. This will help the roots establish and promote healthy growth.

3. Obtaining Rhizomes: Hops plants are typically propagated from rhizomes, which are underground stems that produce new roots and shoots. Purchase healthy and disease-free hop rhizomes from a reputable nursery or online supplier. It’s advisable to choose rhizomes from hop varieties that suit your brewing preferences in terms of aroma and bitterness.

4. Soaking Rhizomes: Before planting, soak the rhizomes in room temperature water for about 24 hours. This will help hydrate the rhizomes and promote better root development.

5. Digging Holes: Dig holes that are approximately 4-6 inches deep and 3-4 feet apart to allow for adequate spacing between the hops plants. Place the rhizomes horizontally in the holes, with the growth buds facing upward. Cover the rhizomes with soil, ensuring they are buried about 2 inches deep. Lightly tamp down the soil around the rhizomes to provide stability.

6. Support Structure: Hops plants require a sturdy support structure to climb and grow. Install a trellis or secure wooden poles in the ground near the plantings. The trellis should be at least 15 feet tall to accommodate the growth of the vines. Attach twine or coir ropes to the top of the structure and tie them loosely to the base of the hops plants. This will enable the plants to climb and provide adequate support as they grow.

7. Watering: After planting the hops rhizomes, water the area thoroughly. Hops plants generally require consistent moisture, especially during the first few weeks after planting. Water them deeply, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. As the plants grow, it’s important to maintain a regular watering schedule. Aim for around 1 inch of water per week, though this may vary depending on your climate and soil conditions.

8. Mulching: Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the base of the hops plants can help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds. Mulching also helps regulate soil temperature and serves as a source of organic matter as it breaks down over time. Apply mulch to a depth of 2-3 inches, but keep it a few inches away from the base of the plants to prevent rotting.

9. Training the Vines: As the hops vines start to grow, gently guide them towards the support structure. Use plant ties or soft twine to loosely secure the vines to the trellis or poles. It’s important not to wrap the vines tightly, as this can hinder their growth and circulation. Continue training the vines throughout the growing season, ensuring they have ample space to climb and spread.

10. Fertilizing: Hops plants benefit from regular fertilization to support their growth and flower production. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 formula, during the early spring when new growth appears. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for proper application rates. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as this may result in excessive leaf growth at the expense of flower production.

Maintenance And Care Tips For Healthy Hops Plants

1. Pruning: In late winter or early spring, before the new growth emerges, prune the hops plants to remove any damaged or dead vines. Cut the vines back to about 6-10 inches above the ground. This will stimulate new growth and promote healthier plants.

2. Weed Control: Regular weeding is important to prevent weeds from competing with the hops plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Take care when weeding around the plants to avoid damaging the delicate young shoots. Applying a layer of mulch can help suppress weed growth and reduce the need for frequent weeding.

3. Pest and Disease Monitoring: Keep a close eye on your hops plants for any signs of pests or diseases. Common pests that can affect hops include aphids, spider mites, and hop flea beetles. Regularly inspect the leaves for discoloration, spotting, or wilting, as this may indicate the presence of diseases like downy mildew or powdery mildew. It’s important to promptly identify and address any pest or disease issues to prevent further damage to the plants.

4. Controlling Pests and Diseases: If you notice any pests on your hops plants, you can try washing them off with a strong jet of water or using insecticidal soap. For diseases, consider using organic fungicides labeled for use on hops plants. Consult with your local garden center or agricultural extension office for specific recommendations and proper application techniques.

5. Managing Growth: Hops plants can grow rapidly and become dense, which can inhibit airflow and increase the likelihood of diseases. It’s important to manage the growth by thinning out excessive foliage and removing lateral shoots. This will improve air circulation and sunlight penetration, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

6. Harvesting Support: As the hops plants grow and mature, they will require additional support to bear the weight of the hop cones during the harvest season. Consider installing sturdy horizontal lines or strings between the existing trellis or poles to provide extra support. These lines can be used to hang the hop bines and prevent damage to the vines during the harvesting process.

Dealing With Common Pests And Diseases In Hops Plants

1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can cluster on the undersides of hop leaves and cause damage by sucking sap from the plant. If you notice a significant aphid infestation, you can try spraying the plants with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the aphids. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product labels for proper application and safety precautions.

2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing discoloration and weakening of the foliage. If you observe fine webbing on the leaves and small, stippled patches, it may indicate a spider mite infestation. Spraying the plants with a solution of insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control spider mites. Repeat the application every few days until the mites are eliminated.

3. Hop Flea Beetles: Hop flea beetles are small, shiny black beetles that can chew on hop leaves, causing small holes and stippling. To control them, you can use insecticidal soap or a pyrethrum-based insecticide, following the instructions on the product labels. It may also help to remove any plant debris or weeds from the vicinity, as they can provide a habitat for the beetles.

4. Downy Mildew: Downy mildew is a fungal disease that affects hop plants, causing yellowing of the leaves, browning of the cones, and a fluffy white growth on the undersides of the leaves. To prevent downy mildew, ensure that your hops plants have adequate spacing and good airflow. Remove and dispose of any infected plant material, and consider applying a preventative fungicide labeled for use on hops.

5. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is another common fungal disease that affects hops plants, manifesting as a white, powdery growth on the leaves and cones. To control powdery mildew, remove any infected plant material and improve airflow around the plants. Prune out any dense foliage and reduce humidity by watering in the morning and avoiding overhead irrigation. There are also organic fungicides available that target powdery mildew.

Harvesting And Storing Your Hops

1. Determining Harvest Time: Hops are typically harvested when the cones are fully mature and have reached their maximum size. The cones should feel dry and papery, and their aroma should be potent. The exact harvest time can vary depending on the hop variety and local conditions. Generally, hops are harvested in late summer or early fall.

2. Harvesting Technique: To harvest hops, carefully cut the cones from the vines using sharp pruning shears. It’s advisable to wear gloves during the process, as the cones can be quite sticky. Handle the cones gently to avoid damaging them, as this can affect their quality. If there are multiple varieties of hops planted, be sure to separate and label the different varieties during harvest to avoid mixing them.

3. Drying Hops: After harvesting, hops need to be dried to reduce their moisture content and prevent spoilage. Spread the cones in a single layer on a clean and dry surface, such as a screen or a food dehydrator tray. Place the hops in a well-ventilated area with low humidity, ideally with a temperature of around 70-80°F. Stir or turn the hops occasionally to ensure even drying. The hops are ready for further processing when they feel brittle and crumble easily, typically after a week or two.

4. Storing Hops: Once the hops are dry, store them in airtight containers, such as zip-top bags or vacuum-sealed bags, to preserve their freshness and aroma. Keep the containers in a cool, dark place, such as a refrigerator or freezer, to maintain their quality. Hops can retain their flavor and bitterness for several months when stored properly.

Planting hops can be a fascinating venture for homebrewers and gardening enthusiasts alike. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can successfully establish and maintain a healthy hops garden. Remember to choose the right location, prepare the soil, plant from rhizomes, provide support structures, and practice proper maintenance and care techniques.

Although hops plants require regular monitoring for pests and diseases, employing preventative measures and effectively addressing any issues that arise will help ensure a bountiful harvest. With the proper harvesting and storage techniques, you can enjoy using your homegrown hops to craft delicious and aromatic beers. So roll up your sleeves, plant those hops, and embark on this fruitful and rewarding journey.

Propagating And Dividing Hops Plants For Future Growth

Hops (Humulus lupulus) are the flowering vines used in the production of beer. They provide bitterness, aroma, and flavor to the beverage. Growing your own hops can be a rewarding experience, especially for homebrewers or those who enjoy experimenting with different hop varieties.

1. Selecting And Preparing The Rhizomes

When planting hops, you have the option of starting from rhizomes or pre-established plants. Rhizomes are underground stems that have dormant buds and are commonly used to propagate hop plants. It’s important to choose healthy and disease-free rhizomes to ensure successful growth.

To prepare the rhizomes for planting, soak them in water for 24 hours. This will help rehydrate the rhizomes and promote root growth once they are planted in the ground.

2. Choosing The Right Location

Hops are vigorous climbers and require ample space to grow. Select a location in your garden that receives full sun for at least six hours a day. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. Ideally, the pH of the soil should range from 6.0 to 8.0.

3. Preparing The Soil

Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any existing vegetation and weeds. Loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 to 18 inches using a garden fork or tiller. Incorporate organic matter such as compost, well-rotted manure, or aged bark into the soil. This will improve drainage and fertility, creating an optimal growing environment for the hop plants.

4. Planting The Rhizomes

Dig a hole that is approximately 4 to 6 inches deep and wide enough to accommodate the rhizome. Place the rhizome horizontally in the hole with the buds facing up. Cover the rhizome with soil, leaving about 1 to 2 inches of soil above the rhizome.

Note: If you are planting multiple hop plants, ensure a spacing of about 3 to 5 feet between each plant to allow for proper air circulation and growth.

5. Installing Support Structures

Hops are vigorous climbers and require support structures to grow vertically. Install a trellis, arbor, or sturdy poles near the planting area. The height of the support structure should be at least 15 feet to accommodate the climbing growth of the hops.

6. Watering And Mulching

After planting, water the hop plants thoroughly to settle the soil and encourage root establishment. Subsequently, water the plants regularly, aiming to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants can help conserve moisture and suppress weed growth.

Note: Avoid overwatering, as hops prefer slightly drier conditions. Overly wet soils can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.

7. Training And Pruning

Once the hop plants start growing, it’s important to train them onto the support structures. Gently guide the bines (the vine-like stems) around the support system in a clockwise direction. The bines will use rough hairs on their stems to grip onto the structure as they climb.

Regular pruning is essential to promote airflow, prevent diseases, and ensure maximum yield. Prune the lateral shoots or side branches that emerge from the main bines, leaving only the main bines to grow vertically. This will direct the plant’s energy toward producing hop flowers.

Using Hops As Decorative Vines In Your Garden

Hops not only serve as a valuable ingredient for brewing but also make attractive and functional additions to your garden. Their lush foliage and twining growth habit can be used to create vertical interest, privacy screens, and shade. Here are a few ideas on how to incorporate hops as decorative vines in your garden:

1. Vertical Garden Screen

Planting hops along a trellis or an arbor can create a beautiful vertical garden screen that adds privacy and visual appeal to your outdoor space. Allow the hops to grow along the structure, and periodically prune them to maintain the desired shape and size.

2. Shade Provider

If you have an area in your garden that receives intense sunlight, planting hops can provide natural shade. Hops’ dense foliage creates a cool and shaded spot ideal for enjoying a relaxing outdoor space during hot summer days.

3. Living Fence

Hops can be planted along a fence line to create a living fence. Their vigorous growth and intertwining vines will eventually fill in the gaps in the fence, providing an attractive, natural barrier and enhancing the aesthetic of your garden.

4. Pergola Or Outdoor Seating Area

If you have a pergola or outdoor seating area, planting hops nearby can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The lush foliage will envelop the structure, providing shade and a pleasant aroma during the blooming season.

5. Container Gardening

If space is limited, hops can also be grown in containers. Choose a large container with excellent drainage, and use a well-draining potting mix. Place the container in a sunny spot and ensure regular watering to keep the soil moist. Provide a trellis or stakes for the hops to climb on.

Remember to monitor the growth and size of the hops when growing them in containers, as they can quickly become large and need more room to thrive.

Troubleshooting Common Issues With Hops Plants

While hops are generally hardy and low-maintenance plants, they can still be affected by various pests, diseases, or environmental issues. Here are some common problems you may encounter when growing hops:

1. Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can affect hops plants, especially in humid or damp conditions. Signs of powdery mildew include a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plants by spacing them adequately and avoiding overcrowding. Watering at the base of the plants instead of overhead can also help minimize the risk.

If powdery mildew does occur, treat the plants with a fungicide specifically designed for powdery mildew control, following the instructions on the label.

2. Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can colonize on the young shoots and leaves of hops plants, sucking sap from the foliage. Signs of aphid infestation include distorted or curled leaves, and the presence of sticky honeydew on the leaves or on the ground below the plant.

To control aphids, you can try spraying the affected parts of the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Alternatively, you can apply insecticidal soap or insecticidal oils following the manufacturer’s instructions. Ladybugs and lacewings are also natural predators of aphids and can help control their population.

3. Downy Mildew

Downy mildew is another fungal disease that affects hops, characterized by yellowing of leaves with brown patches on the undersides. It thrives in cool and humid conditions. To prevent downy mildew, choose hop varieties that are resistant to the disease, if available.

Ensure proper spacing and airflow, and avoid overhead watering, as wet foliage encourages the spread of downy mildew. Copper-based fungicides can be used to manage the disease, but consult with your local extension office or garden center for specific recommendations.

4. Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that often go unnoticed until their damage becomes apparent. These pests feed on the underside of the leaves, sucking the sap and causing tiny yellow spots, webbing, and leaf discoloration.

To control spider mites, regularly inspect the undersides of the leaves and use a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Neem oil or insecticidal soaps can also be effective in managing spider mites, following the product’s instructions.

5. Nutrient Deficiencies

Hops plants require certain essential nutrients to thrive. Common nutrient deficiencies in hops include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium deficiencies. Signs of nutrient deficiencies may include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and poor cone production.

To address nutrient deficiencies, conduct a soil test to determine the specific nutrient needs of your hops plants. Based on the results, you can apply a balanced fertilizer or specific nutrient amendments to correct the deficiencies. Always follow the recommended application rates to avoid over-fertilization, which can cause harm to the plants.

Final Thoughts And Tips For Successful Hops Planting And Maintenance

To summarize, here are some key tips for successful hops planting and maintenance:

1. Select healthy and disease-free rhizomes for planting.
2. Choose an appropriate location with full sun and well-draining soil.
3. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter and loosening it to a depth of 12 to 18 inches.
4. Plant the rhizomes horizontally, ensuring the buds face up, and cover them with soil.
5. Install support structures such as trellises or poles for the hop plants to climb.
6. Water regularly but avoid overwatering, as hops prefer slightly drier conditions.
7. Train the bines onto the support structures in a clockwise direction and prune lateral shoots to encourage vertical growth.
8. Use hops as decorative vines in your garden, such as creating vertical garden screens, living fences, or shade providers.
9. Monitor and address common issues such as powdery mildew, aphids, downy mildew, spider mites, and nutrient deficiencies.
10. Seek advice from local experts, extension offices, or fellow hop growers for specific recommendations on variety selection, climate considerations, and pest and disease management.

Conclusion

Growing hops can be a rewarding and enjoyable endeavor, whether you’re a homebrewer or simply a gardening enthusiast. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to successfully planting and maintaining hops plants. Remember to provide adequate support, care for your plants, and address any issues that may arise promptly. With proper attention and maintenance, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of hops and perhaps even use them to create your own unique brews. Cheers to your hop-growing journey!

FAQS

What Is The Ideal Soil Type For Growing Hops?

Hops grow best in well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5.

How Much Sunlight Do Hops Require?

Hops require full sunlight for at least 6-8 hours per day.

When Is The Best Time To Plant Hops?

Hops should be planted in early spring, after the last frost, or in the fall, at least 4-6 weeks before the first frost.

How Much Space Do Hops Require To Grow?

Hops require at least 20 feet of vertical space to grow on a trellis system and should be spaced 3-5 feet apart in rows.

What Are The Basic Steps For Planting Hops?

The basic steps for planting hops include selecting a planting location, preparing the soil, digging a hole for the hop plant, planting the hop rhizome or plant with the buds facing up, watering the plant thoroughly, and setting up a trellis system for the hop plant to grow on.