Growing Hops In New England

[fayderek14]

Thinking about growing hops this year. I live 20 minutes north of boston. Any recommendations on the best type of hops for our weather and the best methods.

 

[day_trippr]

From the last couple of years experience, I think you could grow pretty much any strain you can get hold of around here. But, for sure Chinook, Cascade, Centennial and Fuggles do well, all things equal. I packed a fridge/freezer compartment full of home-growns this last fall.

As for techniques, use all the good ones...

Cheers!

 

[JohnnyO]

I have 2 year old Cascade and Centennial that have been doing well.

This year, I'm starting some Chinook, Fuggle and Golding.

 

[FrugalEndeavorsFarm]

Lots of free info at the UVM Extension (University of Vermont) on hops. They have done some extensive trial work on a number of varieties, mostly for commercial use. Are you growing for fun or profit? That may play a factor as well. Paul

 

[fayderek14]

Right now just to get a good understanding of the process and to use in my own brews. Depending on how it goes I would most likely look into making a profit if I get the hang of it I will definitely check out the UVM stuff when I get home. Thanks!

 

[FrugalEndeavorsFarm]

I have 7 varieties in the ground, 6 that I "cropped" last year, and 1 Willamette as an oddball this year. I say cropped kind of tongue in cheek, Cascase and Zeus did very well, Northern Brewer, Fuggle, Perle did ok, and Saaz was so low it shouldn't count.

So far I find them much easier than cranberries (my former crop) and I sure like what they go into! I don't brew but have a nanobrewery on site so my goal is profit focused. I grow what the brewer asked for (Zeus was my idea) so I have no marketing to do.

I don't know much but will be happy to share what I do. Paul