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What is a "hop rhizome"? |
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A rhizome is the part of the hop plant that grows beneath the surface. It is the heart of the root system of the vine and stores and transfers food from the root system. |
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When should I plant the rhizome? |
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Ideal planting is February - April. Since we get the rhizomes late in their planting cycle, you should plan to get them in to ground pretty quickly. They should be refrigerated in a water misted ziplock bag until they are ready to go into the ground. You may plant the rhizomes in pots and move them into the ground in June when the ground has warmed. It's a good idea to till the ground you are planting the rhizome into, to loosen the soil and help clear any weeds. |
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Where should I plant the Rhizome? |
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You'll want to survey your growing area and check for a few basic things. First be aware of your vertical surroundings. Do not grow them up electrical poles. Allow more than 10' of vertical growth to ensure a well spaced vine. Hop vines can grow up to 25 ft. in a single seasoon! Less than 10' may result in bunched shoots that make them susceptible to mildew. Plant like varieties together and space these 3' apart. Space out unlike varieties to at least 5' apart. Crowded vines are less productive and susceptible to infestation and mildew. |
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What type of soil is ideal? |
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Rhizomes are not terribly picky. Be sure there is adequete drainage as standing water will rot the roots. The pH of the soil should be between 5.5 and 8.0 (our organic gardening store sells test kits: www.midwesthydroponics.com) |
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What are some potential hazards to the growing hops? |
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Be sure the vines are adequetely spaced, congestion will lead to infestation and mildew problems. Wind is another potential hazard, try to reduce excessive wind shear. Over watering is also an issue, be sure there is proper drainage and be sure you water when there is draught. Some growers will make a mound around the vine to encourage drainage, rocks and gravel will help as well. Keep an eye on the growth and react quickly to anything that is suspect - mildew, insect holes and dryness are the biggest risk indicators. |
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How do I prevent infestation? |
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Keep the vines well fed and watered and evenly spaced. Be sure to keep the area free of weeds. Avoid watering the plants late in the day, fungal and mildew growth needs moisture and darkness. Early watering allows the vines to dry off for the night. Powdery mildew will appear beneath the leaves - Trim off infested parts and dispose of in the trash, away from the vines (do not put in a compost pile). |
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Are there any safety concerns to growing hops? |
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Keep your pets away from the growing hops - dogs especially. Hops are poisonous to dogs if ingested and vetinary assistance should be sought should this occur. |
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Do I need to water my hops? |
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It's a good idea to water frequently the first year. Be sure there is good drainage (no standing water). |
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Do I need to water my hops? |
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It's a good idea to water frequently but lightly the first year. Be sure there is good drainage (no standing water). |
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