Overview of Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small
Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small is a plant species belonging to the hemp family Cannabinaceae. It commonly goes by the names pubescent hop or hairy hop. The plant variety is a subspecies of the common hop plant, Humulus lupulus, and is known for its use in beer-making and medicinal remedies.
Origin and Distribution
Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small is indigenous to North America, particularly in regions within the eastern half of the continent, including Florida, New York, and Missouri. It has also been introduced to various other regions of the world, such as Europe, New Zealand, and Australia.
General Appearance
The hairy hop plant is a climbing vine that can grow up to 25 feet tall and has a thick root system. The plant's stems and leaves are covered in dense, small hairs that give the plant a rough and fuzzy appearance. The plant's leaves are shaped like hearts and are typically 3-5 lobed. The plant's flowers are cone-shaped and typically green, with a papery texture that is often used in the production of various items, such as papers, baskets, and garments.
Uses
Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small has been used for a variety of culinary, medicinal, and commercial purposes. Its cones are primarily used in the production of beer, adding flavor, aroma, and bitterness to the beverage. The plant's papery flowers are used in crafts and as an alternative to fabric, particularly in making dresses, bags, and hats. The plant's extract has also been used in traditional medicine to treat insomnia, anxiety, and other health conditions.
Light Requirements
Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Inadequate sunlight may result in stunted growth and reduced yields.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small is 60-65°F (15.5-18.3°C) during the growing season, while cooler temperatures can be tolerated during dormancy. Extremely hot or cold temperatures can cause damage to the plants.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0-8.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and ample drainage is necessary to prevent waterlogging. The optimal soil temperature for growing Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small is between 50-55°F (10-12.8°C).
Cultivation Methods
Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small is a hardy perennial plant that is typically grown in regions with temperate climates. The plant needs a rich, well-drained, and loamy soil to grow well. It thrives best in areas with full sun exposure that can reach up to six hours per day.
The plant is propagated mainly through cuttings taken from mature and healthy stems. The cuttings are then planted into the soil at a depth of about two inches, and the soil is watered immediately to ensure good contact with the stem. Care should be taken to avoid overwatering the cuttings to prevent root rot.
Watering Needs
Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small requires regular watering to maintain growth and development. The plant needs about an inch of water per week and should be watered at least once every two days in dry weather conditions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to ensure proper drainage of the soil.
Fertilization
To ensure proper growth and development of the plant, it needs regular fertilization. The plant can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer, which contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilizers should be applied to the soil at the start of the planting season and then again after about three weeks of growth.
Pruning
To ensure the plant's healthy growth, it is essential to remove any dead leaves or branches regularly. This not only improves the appearance of the plant but also promotes proper air circulation, which reduces the risk of diseases. The plant's shoots should be trained up strings or trellises, and any side shoots should be removed to maximize the growth and yield of the plant.
Propagation of Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small
Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small can be propagated by several methods including rhizome division, stem cuttings, and seed propagation.
Rhizome division
Rhizome division is a common method of propagation for Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small. The rhizomes should be dug up in the fall when the plant is dormant. The rhizomes can be divided into sections, making sure each section has one or two buds. The sections can then be planted in well-drained soil with good sunlight.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small. Cuttings should be taken from the bottom of the stem and should be about 6-8 inches long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a warm, humid environment until roots have formed.
Seed propagation
Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small can also be propagated by seed. The seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mix, and kept warm and moist until germination. Once the seedlings have developed a few leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Humulus Lupulus L. Var. Pubescens E. Small Plants
Hummulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small, commonly known as the pubescent or downy hop, is a perennial plant commonly used in the beer brewing industry. However, this plant is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can reduce its yield and quality. Therefore, it is important to adopt proper disease and pest management practices, including:
Disease Management:
Downy Mildew: Downy mildew is a fungal disease that can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves, stunted growth, and plant death. To manage downy mildew, it is recommended to use fungicides, such as copper-based products, to prevent the spread of the disease. Also, it is essential to maintain proper plant spacing, water management, and pruning to reduce the humidity levels that can favor the growth of the disease-causing fungi.
Powdery Mildew: Like downy mildew, powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause white powdery patches on leaves and stems, leading to reduced photosynthesis and plant vigor. To manage powdery mildew, it is advisable to use sulfur-based fungicides and compost tea sprays to prevent the growth and spread of the disease. Moreover, proper light and air circulation, and adequate plant nutrition can boost the plant's immunity against powdery mildew.
Verticillium Wilt: This is a soil-borne disease that can cause wilting, stunted growth, and plant death. To manage verticillium wilt, it is best to practice crop rotation, where hops are planted in a different location each year to prevent the buildup of the disease-causing fungi in the soil. Also, it is advisable to sterilize planting equipment and avoid using contaminated soil.
Pest Management:
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that can cause leaf curling, stunted growth, and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids, it is advisable to use insecticidal soap sprays, neem oil solutions, and ladybugs or lacewings that feed on these insects as a natural predator. Also, regular scouting and removal of heavily infested plants or plant parts can prevent the spread of aphids.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are arachnids that can cause yellowing, leaf stippling, and bronzing of leaves. To manage spider mites, it is best to use miticidal sprays, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, and predatory mites that feed on spider mites as a natural predator. Moreover, maintaining proper humidity levels and watering practices can prevent the spread of spider mites.
Japanese Beetle: Japanese beetles are a common pest that can skeletonize leaves and cause defoliation. To manage Japanese beetles, it is best to use insecticidal sprays, such as carbaryl or pyrethroids, or natural predators like chickens or ducks that feed on these beetles. It is also recommended to handpick and remove the beetles from plants or use traps to attract and capture them.
Implementing these disease and pest management practices can help maximize the yield and quality of your Humulus lupulus L. var. pubescens E. Small plants. However, it is recommended to consult with local agriculture experts for specific recommendations based on the prevailing disease and pest pressures in your region.
