When it comes to planting hops, the best time to do so is in the spring. Now, the exact timing can vary depending on where you are located, but generally, mid-March to early May is a good window to aim for.
Before you start planting, it’s important to prepare the area. Remove any existing weeds or vegetation from the planting site. You want to create a clean and weed-free space for your hops to grow. This will help prevent competition for nutrients and ensure that your hops have the best chance of thriving.
Throughout the growing season, it’s important to keep the planting area weed-free. Weeds can quickly take over and choke out your hops, so regular maintenance is necessary. This can involve hand-pulling weeds or using appropriate herbicides, depending on your preference and the severity of the weed problem.
I remember when I first planted hops in my backyard. It was early April, and I spent a good amount of time preparing the area by removing all the weeds and clearing the space. I wanted to give my hops the best start possible. Throughout the summer, I diligently checked for any signs of weeds and promptly removed them. It was definitely a labor of love, but seeing my hops grow and thrive made it all worth it.
To summarize, spring is the ideal time to plant hops. Aim for mid-March to early May, but adjust based on your specific location. Remember to remove weeds from the planting area and keep the area weed-free throughout the growing season. By providing a clean and weed-free environment, you are giving your hops the best chance to flourish.