Overview
Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell, commonly known as New Mexico hop, is a climbing perennial plant that belongs to the Cannabaceae family.
Origin
The plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in warm, dry climates at elevations of 1500-2300 meters.
Common Names
New Mexico hop is commonly known as neomexicanus hop, neo hop, or Southwestern hop.
General Appearance
The New Mexico hop plant has rough, textured leaves that resemble the shape of a maple leaf and can grow up to 7 inches in length. The plant produces small, green flowers that form in cone-shaped clusters called hop cones, which are used in the production of beer. The hop cones contain a resinous substance called lupulin, which gives beer its bitterness and aroma. The plant's roots are deep and strong, allowing it to grow up to 25 feet tall with support.
Uses
New Mexico hop is primarily used in the brewing industry for its unique flavor and aroma profile. It is also used in traditional medicine for its sedative and calming effects. Additionally, the plant has been used as a natural dye for textiles and has potential for use in soil remediation due to its ability to absorb heavy metals.
Light Requirements
The plant Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell requires a lot of light for optimal growth. It is best to grow them in areas where they will receive full sun exposure for about 6-8 hours a day. When grown in shaded areas, the plant may not produce as many cones and the quality of the cones may also be affected.
Temperature Requirements
Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell is a plant that primarily grows in northern latitudes. The plant thrives best when grown in a cooler climate with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 24°C. If the temperature is too hot, the quality of the cones produced may be compromised and the plant may also become more susceptible to various diseases.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell include a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. The soil should retain moisture while also allowing excess water to drain. Adding organic matter to the soil will help improve fertility and structure, which is beneficial for the growth of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell is a perennial plant that requires moderate to high amounts of sunlight. The best place to cultivate it is in areas with cool temperatures and well-draining soil.
Prepare the planting site by tilling the soil and adding compost or organic matter to the soil. Plant the hop rhizomes around April or May, spacing them at least 2-3 feet apart.
Train the bines to climb the trellis or support net. This variety typically grows up to 20 feet tall, so ensure the supports are secure and sturdy.
Watering Needs
The plant requires consistent watering, with about 1 inch of water per week during the growing season. However, ensure that the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
During periods of drought or high temperatures, increase the watering frequency to keep the soil moist. Check the soil moisture level regularly by inserting your finger into the soil to determine if it is dry or moist.
Fertilization
Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell requires adequate nutrients to grow and thrive. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 14-14-14, during the growing season, ideally in early spring and again just before flowering.
Additionally, consider adding organic matter, such as compost, to the soil before planting to enrich the soil and provide micronutrients to the hop plants.
Pruning
To maintain the health of the plant, prune the hop bines in early spring before the new growth appears. Remove the lateral shoots and leave only the primary bines.
Cut back any dead or diseased bines to the ground level. During the growing season, occasionally remove any diseased leaves or bines to prevent the spread of infection.
Propagation of Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell
Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell can be propagated by cuttings and rhizomes. Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Cuttings
Cuttings are the most common and preferred method of propagation for Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell. The ideal time for taking cuttings is early spring or late fall. Cuttings should be taken from healthy and disease-free mother plants. Cuttings should be approximately 4 to 6 inches long and should be taken from the current year's growth. The lower leaves should be removed, and the base of the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone. The cutting should be planted in well-drained soil and should be watered regularly. It will take around three to four weeks for the cutting to develop roots.
Rhizomes
Rhizomes are a less common method of propagation for Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell. Rhizomes are basically underground stems that can sprout new plants. To propagate using rhizomes, a healthy and mature rhizome should be dug up and divided into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one bud. The sections should be planted in well-drained soil and should be watered regularly. It will take around four to six weeks for the new plant to develop.
Disease Management for Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell
Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell, commonly known as neomexicanus hop, is not immune to diseases. Some of the common diseases that afflict this plant include:
- Downy mildew: Downy mildew is caused by the fungus Pseudoperonospora humuli. It can cause severe defoliation and yield losses. It thrives in high humidity and cooler temperatures. To manage this disease, plant resistant cultivars and maintain good plant hygiene.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum. It causes a white, powdery growth on leaves and stems. To manage this disease, maintain good plant hygiene and provide adequate spacing between plants to promote air circulation.
- Verticillium wilt: Verticillium wilt is caused by the fungus Verticillium albo-atrum. It causes yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage this disease, rotate crops and plant resistant cultivars.
Pest Management for Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell
Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell is also susceptible to various pests. Some of the common pests that might affect this plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can damage leaves and stems. To manage this pest, use biological control methods, such as introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, sucking pests that can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Japanese beetles: Japanese beetles are shiny, metallic green beetles that can devour leaves and flowers. To manage this pest, use pheromone traps or handpick beetles and drop them into soapy water.
Proper plant hygiene, adequate spacing between plants, and crop rotation can also help to reduce the incidence of pests and diseases in Humulus lupulus L. var. neomexicanus A. Nels. & Cockerell.
