How to Grow Hops Plant Outdoors

Introduction

Hops are an essential ingredient in brewing beer, and many beer enthusiasts are now growing their own hops plants to ensure a fresh and unique flavor in their homebrews. Growing hops outdoors can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to witness the entire growth cycle of this fascinating plant. In this article, we will guide you through the process of growing hops plants outdoors, from selecting the right variety to harvesting your own hops.

Selecting the Right Variety

Before starting your hops garden, it is crucial to select the right variety of hops that suit your climate and brewing preferences. Different hop varieties have varying levels of bitterness, aroma, and disease resistance. Some popular hop varieties include Cascade, Centennial, and Chinook.

Research the recommended hop varieties for your specific region or consult with local gardening experts or nurseries. It is important to choose a variety that will thrive in your climate conditions to ensure a successful harvest.

Preparing the Soil

Hops plants prefer well-drained soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 8.0. Before planting your hops rhizomes or starter plants, prepare the soil by tilling it to a depth of at least 12 inches. Remove any weeds or grasses and incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.

Consider conducting a soil test to determine its nutrient content. Hops require sufficient levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for healthy growth. Based on the results of your soil test, you can amend the soil with organic fertilizers or mineral supplements to provide the necessary nutrients.

Planting Hops

Hops are typically grown from rhizomes or starter plants rather than seeds. Rhizomes are sections of the hop plant’s underground stem that develop roots and shoots when planted. Starter plants are young hop plants that have been started from rhizomes and are ready for transplanting.

Plant your hops rhizomes or starter plants in early spring, once the threat of frost has passed. Dig a hole that is about 4-6 inches deep and wide enough to accommodate the roots of the plant. Place the rhizome or starter plant in the hole with the buds facing upward and cover it with soil, gently firming the soil around the base of the plant.

Space your hops plants at least 3 feet apart to allow for proper air circulation and sunlight penetration between plants. Hops are vigorous climbers and will require support structures such as trellises or poles to grow vertically.

Providing Support

As hops plants grow, they will require sturdy support structures to climb and reach their full potential. Install trellises or poles before planting your hops to avoid damaging the delicate roots later on.

Trellises should be at least 18 feet high to accommodate the vertical growth of hops plants. Attach strings or wires horizontally across the trellis at intervals of 1-2 feet to provide support for the hop bines. As the plants grow, carefully train the bines to wrap around the strings or wires in a clockwise direction.

Watering and Fertilizing

Hops plants require consistent watering throughout their growing season, especially during dry periods. Provide 1-2 inches of water per week, ensuring that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

Fertilize your hops plants regularly during the growing season to promote healthy growth and maximize yields. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of around 5-10-10 or a specialty fertilizer formulated specifically for hops. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates and timing.

Controlling Pests and Diseases

Like any plant, hops are susceptible to pests and diseases. Common pests that can affect hops include aphids, spider mites, and Japanese beetles. Monitor your plants regularly and take appropriate measures if infestations occur, such as using insecticidal soaps or introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs.

Diseases that can affect hops include powdery mildew and downy mildew. Ensure proper air circulation by spacing your plants adequately and removing any infected leaves or shoots promptly. Fungicides may be necessary in severe cases, so consult with local gardening experts for the best control methods in your area.

Harvesting Hops

Hops are typically ready for harvest in late summer or early fall, depending on the variety and climate. The cones, which contain the aromatic compounds used in brewing, should feel dry and papery to the touch when ready to harvest.

Carefully cut the hop bines near the base of the plant, allowing them to fall onto a clean surface. Gently separate the cones from the bines, discarding any damaged or immature cones. Store the harvested hops in airtight containers in a cool, dry place to preserve their freshness.

Conclusion

Growing hops plants outdoors can be a rewarding endeavor for beer enthusiasts and gardeners alike. With proper selection of hop varieties, soil preparation, support structures, and care throughout the growing season, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh hops for your homebrews. So go ahead, start your own hops garden and elevate your brewing experience to new heights!