Hop growing cycle Flashcards
What is the first step in starting a new hop garden?
Propagate the hop plants
This can be done through layering, mist propagation, or taking cuttings.
Name one method of propagating hop plants.
Layering
In layering, part of the bine is buried to develop roots.
What is mist propagation?
A method that maintains a mist of fine water droplets over cuttings to stimulate root growth
This technique helps in developing healthy roots.
What types of hop varieties can be selected?
Aroma or bitter variety
Additionally, they can be traditional (growing up to 7 m) or dwarf varieties (growing up to 2-3 m).
What influences the requirements for growing hops?
The type of hop selected
This affects whether tall trellises are needed and the harvest time.
When do hop fields get shallow ploughed in the Northern Hemisphere?
In March
This process helps reduce weeds and allows for base fertiliser application.
What happens in early April during the hop growing cycle?
The first shoots begin to sprout
Only the strongest shoots are trained onto the support, while extra shoots are removed.
How do hop plants climb?
They wind clockwise around the supporting wire
This is characteristic of climbing plants.
What is the growth rate of hop plants during the active growing period?
Up to 30 cm in length per day
This rapid growth is typical for hop plants.
What should the soil pH be during the growth phase of hops?
Around 6.5
Proper pH is crucial for nutrient absorption.
What nutrients are needed for fertilising hop plants?
Nitrogen, phosphates, and potassium
These nutrients support healthy growth.
What is the method of irrigation used for hops?
Overhead sprays or drip feed
Irrigation helps maintain moisture during growth.
When should hops reach full height?
By mid-to-end July
This is when laterals also begin to grow out.
What must growers inspect during the growing season?
Plants for pests and/or disease
Effective management is necessary to ensure healthy crops.
When are hops typically harvested?
Between the end of August and late September
Harvesting occurs within a short time frame.
How are tall hops harvested?
By cutting the whole bine, including the string
The cut bines are then taken to the hop picking machine.
What is the process for harvesting dwarf hops?
Picked mechanically where the hop and leaf are removed
Both are fed into the same hop picking machine.
What happens to the hop plants towards winter?
The parts above ground die, and the plants are pruned back
Nutrients are moved to the rootstock underground for dormancy.
What is the dormancy period in hop cultivation?
When nutrients are moved to the rootstock for spring growth
This prepares the plant for regrowth.
True or False: Hop harvesting is a relaxed process for growers.
False
It is a hectic time, requiring quick harvesting and drying.
