Hops Companion Plants: The Ultimate Guide

Oleh Anonymous February 20, 2022 Post a Comment

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Hops are a popular crop for beer production, and they require specific conditions to grow successfully. One of the ways to improve the growth and health of hops is by planting them alongside companion plants. In this blog post, we'll explore the world of hops companion plants, why they're important, and how to choose the best ones.

What Are Hops Companion Plants?

Companion plants are plants that are grown together with another plant to provide some benefits. For hops, companion plants can serve various purposes such as attracting beneficial insects, controlling pests, and improving soil quality. Some examples of hops companion plants include:

1. Chamomile

Chamomile is a herb that attracts beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings which prey on common hop pests like aphids. Additionally, chamomile has antimicrobial properties that can help fight fungal infections that sometimes affect hops.

2. Nasturtium

Nasturtium is a vibrant flowering plant that serves as a trap crop for aphids, drawing them away from the hops. It also repels whiteflies and cucumber beetles, which can damage hops.

3. Marigold

Marigold is an excellent companion plant for hops because it repels nematodes, root maggots, and other harmful soil-borne pests. Additionally, marigold flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects, while their roots break up compacted soil and improve drainage.

4. Borage

Borage is a hardy plant that can attract pollinators and beneficial insects like bees and wasps, which help to control pests that affect hops. It also enriches the soil by drawing up nutrients from deeper layers.

How to Choose Hops Companion Plants

When choosing companion plants for hops, it's essential to consider their compatibility, benefits, and growth habits. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

1. Compatibility

Choose plants that have similar soil and water requirements as hops. Avoid planting anything that competes with hops for resources or produces compounds that can harm them.

2. Benefits

Select plants that provide benefits such as attracting beneficial insects, repelling pests, improving soil quality, or providing shade.

3. Growth Habits

Consider the height and spread of companion plants to ensure they don't shade out or overcrowd the hops. Also, choose plants that have a complementary growth habit, for example, a shallow-rooted plant can be planted alongside a deep-rooted one.

Companion Planting Tips for Hops

Now that you know about hops companion plants let's look at some tips for successful companion planting with hops:

1. Plan ahead

Before planting hops, research companion plants and plan your garden layout accordingly. Decide on the number of each companion plant required based on the size of your hop yard.

2. Rotate crops

To avoid soil-borne diseases and pests, rotate your crops every year. This means that you should not plant the same crop in the same spot for at least three years.

3. Intercrop

Intercropping involves planting two or more crops together in the same area. This method maximizes space utilization and can improve soil fertility.

4. Mulch

Mulching reduces soil moisture loss, regulates soil temperature, and suppresses weed growth. Use organic mulch like straw or wood chips to conserve water and add nutrients to the soil.

FAQs

Q1. Can I plant any plant as a hops companion?

A: No, not every plant makes a good companion for hops. Choose plants that provide benefits such as repelling pests, improving soil quality, or attracting beneficial insects.

Q2. What is the best way to plant hops companion plants?

A: Hops companion plants should be planted in rows alongside the hops. Be sure to give each plant enough space to grow and avoid overcrowding.

Q3. How can I tell if my hops are growing well with companion plants?

A: You'll see fewer pests and healthier hops plants. Additionally, you may notice an increase in the number of beneficial insects and pollinators around your hop yard.

Q4. Can I use chemical pesticides on my hops even if I'm using companion plants?

A: It's not recommended to use chemical pesticides as they can harm both beneficial insects and the hops themselves. Instead, opt for natural pest control methods like companion planting and integrated pest management.

Q5. How do I know which companion plants are best for my climate?

A: Research companion plants that thrive in your climate zone. Some plants may be better suited for colder or hotter climates than others.

Hops companion plants offer a natural and effective way to improve the health and yield of your hops crop. By choosing the right companion plants and following some simple tips, you can create a thriving hop garden that attracts beneficial insects, repels pests, and improves soil quality. So, get planting!