Humulus lupulus

Germination

Sow into a cold frame or under glass in spring. Prior to sowing the seed may be soaked to aid germination. Sow 3mm deep into moist, well-drained seed compost. Keep moist at all times. Ideal Temp. 5°C. Germination takes 25-30 days. Even under ideal conditions germination can be irregular taking up to 90 days. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots and grow on. Plant out the following spring. Can be sown directly if desired after danger of frost has passed.

Growing

Prefers most moist but well-drained soils in a sheltered position. Ideal grown up a sunny trellis or along a training wire. Do not allow the soil to dry out. Trimming in spring and summer will offer a better hop crop. Try to keep foliage off the ground to minimise diseases.

Cultivation

Pruning group 7. Prune in late winter or early spring. Prune before new leaf growth emerges. Prune back hard to ground level. Propagate by softwood cuttings or semi-hardwood cuttings. To harvest the hops allow them to dry on the plant. In Mar-May the hops will turn dry and papery, harvest then air-dry in the dark. The hops are dry enough when they have lost 75-90% of their original weight. If using for beer making store dried hops in the freezer, place in a zip-lock bag and squeeze out the air.