Hops
humulus lupulus
Also known as: ["Hop","Hops Vine"]
Overview
A vigorous, climbing vine native to Europe, Asia, and North America, widely cultivated for its use in brewing beer.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","culinary herb","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Cannabaceae |
| Genus: | Humulus |
| Botanical Name: | Humulus lupulus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: trellised or supported structure in garden, or large container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging; ensure excess water can escape to avoid root rot.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter; a mix of loam, compost, and perlite or sand works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts; minor pruning can be done throughout the growing season to manage size.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth annually to encourage new, productive vines.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak afternoon hours in hot regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate the plant regularly for even growth; use shade cloth if needed in intense sunlight; monitor for signs of sunburn or etiolation.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently during active growth
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, fertile soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend soil with organic matter for fertility; monitor pH and adjust if necessary.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler nights and warmer days during active growth.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; use shade or frost protection as needed; adjust watering based on temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize lightly and frequently rather than heavily and rarely; avoid fertilizing in winter; water thoroughly after fertilizing to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or rhizome division; stem cuttings are the most common method for hop propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem or rhizome.
- Cut stem just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring before new growth begins; rhizome division can be done in early spring or fall.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture and warmth for optimal rooting.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with perlite or sand; can also be propagated in water until roots develop.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates, especially for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 2–4 weeks; rhizome division can establish more quickly if done in spring.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator for humidity.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sunlight; maintain high humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back old or weak vines at the base; train new vines on supports; remove any dead or damaged growth as needed.
Pruning Plan
Prune to manage size, encourage hop production, and remove dead or diseased growth; focus on training vines and removing weak or overcrowded stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, and possibly a saw for larger stems.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune before new growth begins; remove dead or diseased stems; train vines on supports.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or fruiting periods.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with at least a 2–3 inch increase in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container; hops are vigorous growers and may need repotting every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Select an appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water well after repotting; provide support for vines.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand to improve drainage; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold; leaf scorch or browning in excessive sunlight.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration; prolonged exposure to frost may damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors during freezes; use mulch to insulate roots in ground plantings.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced hop production; heat stress may cause the plant to go dormant prematurely.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation to reduce heat buildup.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose the right fertilizer type; apply at the correct time; follow label instructions for dilution; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during active growth; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer to avoid tender growth susceptible to frost.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicHops are also toxic to cats, though less commonly ingested than by dogs. The toxic effects are similar to those in dogs, with a focus on the risk of severe hyperthermia.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicHops can be toxic to dogs, particularly when ingested. The exact toxic compounds are not fully understood, but they can cause a rapid increase in body temperature, which can be life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHumulus lupulus, commonly known as hops, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild physiological effects due to its active compounds, such as alpha and beta acids, which can have sedative properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Humulus lupulus used for?
A: It is primarily used in brewing beer for its bittering, flavoring, and stability-enhancing properties.
Q: Is Humulus lupulus toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How should I care for Humulus lupulus?
A: Provide full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil, and support for climbing. Regular watering is needed, especially during dry periods.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cannabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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