Ten Minute Gardening

Here’s some info about a climbing herb that has moved house with me several times – Hops Humulus lupulus

Hops

Perennial (annual varieties are available)

Hardy to Zone 3

Height: 20’ – 25’ + (very fast grower)

Full sun

Well drained soil

Flowers (Bracts actually) are cone shaped, multi layered, light green 3” long

Leaves are medium green, resembling grape leaves

Propagate by divisions

Can become mildly invasive

Somewhat susceptible to spider mites and aphids

Somewhat susceptible to mildew, molds and rust, but easily prevented or controlled by providing good air circulation

Requires a strong trellis/arbour/fence to grow on

Flowers do not have a very pleasant scent, especially when dried

Leaves can cause mild dermatitis, so wear gloves and long sleeves when working with it

Harvest flowers just as they open out and when they are still fairly green

Uses:

Beer of course.

The dried flowers are used to make sleep pillows (mix with a pleasantly fragranced herb such as lemon verbena to offset the scent of the hops).

There is some question about whether it is the hops, or the alcohol, in beer that causes drowsiness. Probably both!

Dried flowers are lovely additions to wreaths and dried arrangements

Dry the flowers on the (harvested) vine and draped across a mantel or high cupboard looks so homey. Hint: Set it up where it won’t be disturbed too often as flowers become quite fragile.

Medicinally, the flowers have antiseptic properties and are said to relieve swelling when make into a poultice and applied externally