Planting Instructions
Hops can be grown up strings, poles or on a fence with wire support.
There are three basics factors for how to plant hops for maximum growth and production: soil, sun, and space.
Soil – Soil is an important factor in growing hops plants. Hops aren’t fussy and have been known to grow in sand or clay, but ideally, the soil should be rich, loamy, and well-drained for the best yield. Hops also prefer a soil pH between 6.0 and 6.5 so the addition of lime may be necessary.
Sun – These perennials grow easily in partial shade, and if you’re planting them as an attractive cover for an old fence or eyesore, they’ll do just fine. However, hops need lots of sun for a bountiful harvest and a south-facing location is ideal. Hops bines easily grow over fences, trellises, or even the side of your house, if they have the appropriate support.
Space – Your hops plants need plenty of room. Plants can reach heights of 6 metres before they grow side shoots that produce cones each growing season. Plants should be spaced about a metre apart.
Planting Instructions for Bare Root plants
On receiving your plants remove the plants from the bag, check to see if they are moist, if they are not place in a bucket of water for 1 hour before planting.
Plant the hops no later than mid-April
- First dig a hole about 30 centimetres (1 ft) deep.
- Place the plant in the hole with the crown of the plant, the bit with the shoots on, about 5 centimetres below surface level.
- Cover all the roots and crown with good quality well mulched soil to aid in weed control and moisture conservation.
- Firm in gently.
- Sprinkle some general fertiliser around the surface.
- Water in only if the soil is dry.