I was hesitant to grow hops since I live in the humid East Coast.  But after reading a bunch about hops, my hesitation ceased.  It became clear that I could successfully grow my first hop plants in my backyard.

It all started as a nice Christmas gift of hop rhizomes.  Rhizomes are the root system you plant that grow the hop vine, which then bloom into the flower to pick for brewing.  There are some great websites that sell rhizomes, and provide a nice description of the climate that is best suitable for hop growth.  I chose Mt. Hood, Cascade, Chinook, Perle, and Hallertau.  I wasn’t sure how successful I’d be, but I was hoping I could get all five growing.  I ordered my hops in the spring, and waited for the perfect day to plant.  In early June, the planting and growing began.  I found five spots in my backyard, and dug foot and a half holes.  I took the tip of the rhizome and soaked it in a root stimulant.  Then, I placed some Miracle Grow soil with good nutrients in the hole, placed the hop vertically, and covered up with remaining Miracle Grow.  Once the holes were covered, I mulched throughout.  It is important to keep the soil moist, but not to overwater.

So the waiting game began.  I checked everyday, and I began to worry.  There were no hops.  But then the day came.  Two vines emerged from the soil, and I was successful growing hops.  The realization came that I was two for five with my hops, but hope is not lost.  I can always plant next year, and then have enough hops to create a surplus.  My Mt. Hood and Cascade live to see another day, and I can’t wait to try again next year.

I’m all about saving money and DIY projects, and hop growing is a simple way to have complete control over your homebrewing experience.  Hops are aesthetically pleasing, and a great landscape addition.  Consider growing hops yourself, because I know if I can do it, anyone can grow hops.  Cheers!

Anbrew