Join the Hop Collective

Joining the Southey Hop Collective is more than just growing hops—it’s about being part of a vibrant tradition and creating something unique and local.

By planting a hop plant and caring for it, you contribute to a shared vision of sustainability, community, and delicious beer. Don’t wait—get your hop plant today and be part of the story with Southey Brewing Co. Cheers!

Starting Out with Planting a Hop Plant for Local Beer Brewing

Hops are the heart and soul of beer, adding bitterness, aroma, and flavour to the final product. If you're intrigued by the idea of crafting beer from locally grown ingredients, why not join the Southey Hop Collective? By growing your own hops and contributing to this community initiative, you’ll be part of an age-old brewing tradition with Southey Brewing Co. Here’s how you can get started and make your hops a part of a delicious local ale.

1. Understand the Basics of Hops

Hops are the flowers of the hop plant (*Humulus lupulus*), a perennial climbing vine that thrives in temperate climates. These plants grow vigorously, often reaching heights of 20 feet or more, and require a strong trellis system for support. The cone-shaped flowers are the primary ingredient used in brewing.

Hops come in various varieties, each offering unique flavours and aromas. Different hops grow better in different places - a bit like grapes from wine. You may have. heard of American hops like Cascade, Chinook, and Centennial used for their citrusy and floral notes, or traditional English hops like Goldings, Fuggle and Bramling Corss for softer, earthy characteristics.

2. Choose the Right Location

Hops need ample sunlight—at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily—so choose a south-facing location with well-draining soil. They prefer sandy loam soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Proper air circulation is also crucial to prevent fungal diseases.

3. Purchase Your Hop Plant from Southey Brewing Co.

To get started, buy a quality hop plant or rhizome through Southey Brewing Co. These rhizomes are carefully selected for their suitability to the local climate and brewing needs. Purchasing from the collective ensures you’re part of a community dedicated to creating delicious local ales.

4. Prepare the Soil

Before planting, prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of 12-15 inches and mixing in organic compost. This improves drainage and provides essential nutrients for robust growth. Test the soil pH and amend it if necessary to achieve the optimal range.

5. Plant the Rhizomes

Plant your rhizomes in early spring after the last frost. Dig a trench about 4 inches deep and place the rhizomes horizontally, with the buds facing up. Space each rhizome about 3 feet apart to allow ample room for growth. Cover them with 1-2 inches of soil and water lightly.

6. Set Up a Trellis System

As hop plants grow, they need support to climb. Install a sturdy trellis system, such as tall poles with heavy-duty twine or wire, anchored securely to the ground. Train the bines (young shoots) to climb by gently wrapping them clockwise around the support as they grow.

7. Provide Consistent Care

  • Watering: Hops require consistent moisture, especially during their first year, but avoid water-logging the roots.
  • Fertilising: Apply a balanced fertiliser during the growing season to support vigorous growth.
  • Pruning: Trim excess shoots early in the season to direct the plant’s energy into producing high-quality cones.
  • Pest and Disease Management: Watch for common issues like aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Use organic or chemical treatments as needed.

8. Support and Guidance from Southey Brewing Co.

Southey Brewing Co. is with you every step of the way. Whether you’re unsure about planting techniques, soil preparation, or pest management, their team of experts is on hand to offer advice and guidance. Being part of the Southey Hop Collective means you’ll have access to invaluable resources and support to ensure your hop-growing (and picking) journey is a success.

9. Harvesting

Hops are typically ready for harvest in late summer, just in time for Southey Brewing Co.'s September brewing season. The cones should feel dry and papery, and the lupulin (yellow resin inside) should be fragrant and sticky. Pick the cones carefully, leaving the plant intact for next year’s growth. Take the whole cones straight to the brewery - the fresher the better!

 

10. Contribute to the Southey Hop Collective

Once your hops are harvested and dried, deliver them to Southey Brewing Co. as part of the collective effort. These locally grown hops will be transformed into a delicious ale that reflects the community’s hard work and passion for brewing.

11. Enjoy the Results

Come September, your hops will become part of a flavourful local beer brewed by Southey Brewing Co. Gather with other members of the collective to celebrate and enjoy the fruits of your labour in the form of a refreshing, community-crafted ale.