Choose a sunny location with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight
Use well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5
Install a sturdy trellis, pole, or support system 15 to 20 feet tall
Plant hop rhizomes in early spring after the last frost
Space plants 3 to 5 feet apart
Plant rhizomes horizontally about 1 to 2 inches deep with buds facing up
Water deeply and keep soil consistently moist, not waterlogged
Add compost or balanced fertilizer in spring
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Train the strongest bines onto the support system when they are 1 to 2 feet long
Remove weaker shoots and keep 2 to 3 bines per plant
Continue training bines clockwise around the support
Prune lower leaves and shoots to improve airflow
Watch for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and Japanese beetles
Watch for diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew
Harvest cones when they feel dry, papery, and springy and release a strong aroma
Dry harvested hops thoroughly before storage
Store dried hops in airtight bags or containers in a cool, dark place
Cut bines back to the ground after harvest or after frost
Protect roots in winter with mulch in cold climates
Divide and replant rhizomes every few years if needed