common hop

Common hop (Humulus lupulus) should be watered regularly during the growing season. Water them when the top few inches of soil have dried out. Depending on the weather and soil type, this could mean every 2 to 4 days. However, if the soil is sandy, they may need to be watered more often. During flowering time, it is important not to let the soil dry out completely as this could impart a bitter taste to the cones produced. During the winter, water only when the top few inches of soil have dried out. Aim to keep them evenly moist but not waterlogged.

Common Hop (Humulus lupulus) grows best in full sunlight. The plant prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day, and can tolerate full sun for up to 12 hours if given adequate water. Morning sunlight is the most important for this species, as direct afternoon sun can be too intense. It is best to provide morning sun and filtered afternoon shade for common Hop.

Common hop (Humulus lupulus) should be pruned once a year in late winter or early spring before the new growth begins. Pruning should be extensive, cutting back the old branches by at least half or up to 85%. Prune out the oldest and weakest stems first to encourage new growth. Cut back branches to about 5 nodes from the ground, and leave the most vigorous shoots to produce the harvestable cones later in the season. If pruning is not done, Common Hops can quickly become weak, disease-prone and unproductive.