Origin and Common Names
Humulus lupulus L. var. lupuloides E. Small, commonly known as wild or American hop, belongs to the Cannabaceae family. It is native to North America and was used by Native Americans for its medicinal and aromatic properties. The plant thrives in moist environments and can be found growing in the wild, particularly in Canada and the United States.
Appearance
The American hop plant can grow up to 20 feet tall and is a perennial vine with spiky leaves that vary in shape and size. Its flowers are cone-shaped and can be distinguished by their distinctive papery texture. The plant has a fast growth rate and can quickly cover large areas if left unchecked, making it a popular choice for use as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Uses
Wild hop is primarily used in the production of beer, although it can also be used as a natural remedy for various ailments. The plant's cones are harvested and dried before being used in the brewing process, providing a distinct bitterness and flavor to beer. Additionally, the plant's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties have been used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and indigestion. The leaves of the plant have also been used to make poultices to treat wounds and swellings.
Overall, Humulus lupulus L. var. lupuloides E. Small is a versatile plant that has a variety of uses both medicinally and commercially, and is a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape.Light Requirements
The Humulus lupulus L. var. lupuloides E. Small plant typically requires full sunlight exposure for its growth and development. This means that it will not grow well in shady areas with limited sunlight. Therefore, it is important to plant this species in an area with direct access to sunlight for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The Humulus lupulus L. var. lupuloides E. Small is a temperate plant that grows best in cool temperatures between 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). High temperatures beyond 30°C (86°F) adversely affect its growth and development. Therefore, it is essential to plant this species in an area with moderate temperatures to ensure optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
The Humulus lupulus L. var. lupuloides E. Small grows well in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support the growth of this species. Additionally, the plant requires adequate moisture in the soil, but it should not be waterlogged as this may lead to root rot. Therefore, it is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged when growing this species.
Cultivation Methods
Humulus lupulus L. var. lupuloides E. Small, commonly known as American Hop, is a perennial climber that can grow up to 25 feet tall. These plants are usually propagated through rhizomes and require moderately fertile, well-drained soils. They grow best in full sunlight and cooler climates, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F.
Watering Needs
Regular watering is essential to maintain efficient growth in American Hop plants, particularly during the flowering season. The soil should remain moist but not waterlogged, as waterlogging can lead to root rot and other diseases. Young plants will require frequent watering until they are well-established, but mature plants are more drought-tolerant.
Fertilization
American Hop plants require regular fertilization to ensure adequate growth and the production of high-quality hops. A soil test can determine the exact nutrient requirements of the soil. An ideal fertilizer for hop plants should contain high amounts of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. Organic fertilizers like composted leaves and rotted manure can also be added to the soil to improve its fertility.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of hop cultivation, which improves the quality and yield of hops. The first-year shoots should be pruned to only two to three bines, while only the healthiest bines should be selected for subsequent years. Regular pruning of the side shoots and removal of the lower leaves will help improve air circulation, reduce the risk of diseases, and increase hop quality.
Propagation of Humulus lupulus L. var. lupuloides E. Small
Humulus lupulus L. var. lupuloides E. Small, commonly known as wild hop or American hop, is propagated through seeds, rhizomes, and stem cuttings. The choice of propagation method depends on the purpose of propagation, the availability of resources, and cultural practices.
Seeds
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for Humulus lupulus L. var. lupuloides E. Small. The seeds are collected from mature cones during the harvest season, which occurs in late summer or early fall. The collected seeds are cleaned and sorted to remove any damaged or diseased seeds. The seeds are then stratified to break dormancy and enhance germination. Stratification involves exposing the seeds to cold and moist conditions for a period of 2-3 weeks. The stratified seeds are then sown in a seedbed or containers filled with a well-draining soil mix containing organic matter. The seeds generally germinate within 10-14 days, and the seedlings are transplanted to a permanent location after they develop their second set of true leaves.
Rhizomes
Rhizomes are horizontal underground stems that produce roots and shoots. Rhizome propagation is useful for establishing new Hop plants or expanding an existing plantation. Rhizomes are generally collected from mature plants during the dormant period, which occurs in late fall or early winter. Healthy and disease-free rhizomes are selected and cut into sections, each with at least one growth bud. The rhizome sections are then planted in well-draining soil with organic matter at a depth of 2-4 inches. The rhizomes sprout in the spring, and the new shoots emerge from the soil. Rhizomes can also be divided into smaller sections to increase the number of plants.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are another propagation method for Humulus lupulus L. var. lupuloides E. Small. Stem cuttings are generally taken during the growing season when the plant is actively growing. Healthy and disease-free stems with several sets of leaves are selected, and the leaves on the lower half of the stem are removed. The cuttings are then dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix with organic matter. The cuttings are placed in a warm and humid environment with indirect light. The cuttings generally root within 2-4 weeks, and they can be transplanted to a permanent location after they develop a strong root system.
Disease and Pest Management for Humulus lupulus L. var. lupuloides E. Small
The plant Humulus lupulus L. var. lupuloides E. Small is vulnerable to various diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests of this plant and the management techniques to control them:
Diseases
Downy mildew
Downy mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing, wilting, and leaf drop. This disease is spread by wind and rain, so proper spacing and irrigation management is crucial to avoid spreading.
Management: Control downy mildew by using fungicides. Use fungicides that contain copper or mancozeb. Apply these fungicides at the onset of the disease and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Avoid applying fungicides during flowering as that might harm bees and other pollinators.
Powdery mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease characterized by a powdery white coating on leaves, stems, and flowers. This disease thrives in humid and moist conditions.
Management: Control powdery mildew by removing infected parts of the plant and ensuring proper air circulation around the plant. Fungicides containing sulfur or potassium bicarbonate can help control the spread of the disease.
Pests
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant. The infested area turns yellow, and the leaves will have a yellow or brown discoloration. Spider mites thrive in hot, dry conditions, and are more prevalent in indoor growing environments.
Management: Control spider mites by releasing beneficial bugs that prey on spider mites, such as ladybugs or predatory mites. If the infestation is severe, apply insecticidal soaps or neem oil to control the outbreak.
Japanese Beetles
Japanese Beetles are a common pest that feeds on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of the plant. It results in skeletonizing of the leaf and a reduction in yield.
Management: Control Japanese beetles by spraying insecticides like bifenthrin or lambda-cyhalothrin on the foliage of the plant. Install pheromone traps around the growing area to lure the beetles away from the plant.
By following these disease and pest management techniques, growers can ensure the health and productivity of their Humulus lupulus L. var. lupuloides E. Small plants.
