A vigorous, fast-growing perennial climber producing distinctive cone-shaped flowers loved for brewing, drying, and ornamental use. Hops are a classic cottage-garden plant, valued for their bold foliage, rapid coverage, and architectural presence. Best suited to gardeners with space and strong supports in place.
 
When to Sow: Mar - Apr &  Sep- Oct
 
HOW TO SOW HOPS:
Sow fresh seed onto moist, free-draining compost and lightly cover to a depth of 5–10 mm. Maintain a temperature of 18–20 °C for germination, which can be slow and irregular. Transplant seedlings carefully once true leaves have formed, and harden off well before planting out after the last frost.
 
Classification: Hardy Perennial
Expert Level:  Intermediate
Germination Time : 2-8 wks (can be longer)
Flowering Time:Aug/Sep
Site: Full Sun
Soil Type: Loam / Sandy loam
Soil Acidity: Neutral /slightly alkaline
Moisture: Well drained/ Wet
 
Care: Provide strong vertical supports, as hops are vigorous climbers that can reach 6–7 m in a single season. Train 2–3 bines per plant and remove excess growth, mulch annually, and feed well in spring as hops are nitrogen-hungry. Cut plants back fully after autumn dieback and monitor for aphids, spider mites, and downy mildew.
 
Use: Ornamental use, Cut Flowers
 
Harvest time: Harvest hop cones when they feel papery, are strongly aromatic, and spring back when gently squeezed. Entire bines or individual cone clusters can be cut, and cones should be dried immediately in a warm, well-ventilated space. Male plants do not produce usable cones.
 
Days to Maturity:  120–150 days (spring growth) 2–3Y reliable flowering
Vase Life: Use Dried
Height:5-7m
Plant Spacing:  1-1.5m