Hop

Humulus lupulus

Fruits and Vegetables, Trees and Shrubs, Herbs

Propagated from root cuttings; use cuttings from female plants if cultivated for flowers. 6-8" cuttings each with a bud or two may be taken from parent root in early spring, every three or so years. Set rhizomes about 4 inches deep, with buds pointing up, spaced 2-3'. Zone 4-9

Grow in full sun to part shade, loose, rich, well-drained soil, and provide ample water, at least several times per week. Thin to 2 shoots per rhizome at an early stage. Mulch during summer to help retain moisture, and feed with compost at least yearly

Stem cuttings may also be taken and rooted, taken from the first few side shoots when these have 3 pairs of leaves, removing the lower leaves, and rooting in sterile medium. Simple layering may be used. Finally, may be propagated from seed sown 1/4" deep, though results are indeterminate and may not resemble the parent plant

Perennial, does well most climates. Often attains 40' in height, and gets quite heavy: provide adequate support. Hops naturally wrap clockwise, counterclockwise in the Southern hemisphere, and should be trained in those directions. Alternatively, it may be allowed to sprawl, as ground cover

Finally, hops may be started from seed, sown 1/4" deep, at 70-75F/21-24C; note that the resultant hop will differ from its parents