As the craft beer industry continues to grow, so does the interest in growing hops. Hops are the flowers of the hop plant, Humulus lupulus, and they are a key ingredient in beer production. They add bitterness to balance the sweetness of the malt, as well as providing aroma and flavor. Whether you’re a home brewer wanting to take your craft to the next level or a gardening enthusiast looking for a new challenge, growing hops can be a rewarding endeavor. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about growing hops.
Understanding the Basics of Hops
Before you start planting, it’s important to understand what hops are and how they grow. Hops are perennial plants, meaning they grow back year after year. They are also bines, not vines. Bines climb by wrapping themselves around a support, while vines use tendrils or suckers to climb. This means that hops need a sturdy vertical structure to grow on.
Hops are also dioecious, which means there are separate male and female plants. Only the female plants produce the cones used in brewing, so most growers only cultivate female plants. The hop plant is native to temperate regions and grows best in climates with cold winters and long daylight hours in the summer.
Choosing the Right Hop Variety
There are many different varieties of hops, each with its own flavor profile and growing requirements. Some varieties are better suited to certain climates than others, so it’s important to choose a variety that will thrive in your area. For example, Cascade hops are a popular choice for home growers because they are hardy and adaptable to many different climates.
When choosing a variety, you should also consider the flavor and aroma characteristics you want in your beer. Some varieties are more bitter, while others are more aromatic. Some popular varieties include Centennial, known for its floral and citrusy aroma, and Chinook, known for its piney and spicy flavor.
Planting and Caring for Hops
Planting Hops
Once you’ve chosen your hop variety, it’s time to start planting. Hops are typically grown from rhizomes, which are root cuttings from mature plants. Rhizomes should be planted in the spring, as soon as the threat of frost has passed. They should be planted in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The planting site should also get at least six to eight hours of sun each day.
When planting, dig a hole about 4 inches deep and 12 inches wide. Place the rhizome in the hole with the buds pointing upwards and cover with soil. The rhizomes should be spaced about 3 feet apart to allow for growth. After planting, water thoroughly.
Caring for Hops
Hops require regular care to thrive. They need to be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. However, it’s important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Hops also benefit from regular feeding. A balanced fertilizer applied in the spring can help promote healthy growth.
As the bines start to grow, they should be trained onto a trellis or other support structure. This not only supports the plant’s growth, but also helps to maximize exposure to sunlight. Pruning is also important. In the first year of growth, all bines should be allowed to grow to promote root development. In subsequent years, only the strongest bines should be kept and the rest should be pruned away.
Harvesting and Storing Hops
Hops are typically ready to harvest in late summer or early fall, when the cones are dry and papery to the touch. The exact timing can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions. When harvesting, cut the bines down to about 3 feet from the ground and pick the cones off by hand.
After harvesting, hops should be dried immediately to prevent mold. This can be done by spreading them out in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area. Once dry, hops should be stored in airtight containers in the freezer to preserve their flavor and aroma.
Common Challenges in Growing Hops
Like any plant, hops can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Aphids, spider mites, and hop beetles can all pose a threat to hop plants. Regular inspection of your plants can help catch these pests early before they cause too much damage. There are also a variety of organic and chemical pest control options available.
Hops can also be affected by several diseases, including downy mildew and powdery mildew. These diseases can be prevented by proper spacing of plants to improve air circulation and regular pruning to remove infected material. If a plant does become infected, it may need to be removed to prevent the disease from spreading.
Despite these challenges, growing hops can be a rewarding experience. With careful planning and regular care, you can successfully grow your own hops and take your brewing to the next level.