Hops

[Fwoor]

Hi everyone,

I have been seeking information on the possibility of growing hops in an aquaponic system. I've come across a few (3) instances of people trying to grow hops (2 aquaponically, 1 hydroponically), Each seeming to last a year before failing.

I know of large hop plantations around in tasmania which suggests the climate here is right for them.

I hope there isn't something regarding aquaponics that is not conducive to hop growing!

Cheers,
Fwoor

[Jagungal]

My understanding of hops is that they grow up mad all summer and die down in the winter. You chop them off and start again the next season. If someone did well for one year - then thats great and may be normal. It might be the way the Rhizomes are stored over winter as well if they didn't do so well. I could imagine that during their dormant period, they might not like it too moist.

I am guessing that you might do best with them in some kind of drip pot.

Why not get some Rhizomes and give them a try. It is actually one of the things I might try myself as my system grows.

[Fwoor]

Yeah, I'd certainly like to be trying it as soon as possible Jagungal, Unfortunately I haven't the means to try it any time soon. No AP system yet, Just doing my reading!

I have seen evidence of good root growth in at least one instance, So thats positive.

I suppose a restricted flow section of a setup wouldnt be too hard to rig up if your correct about the dormant period.

[GaryD]

Hi,



I hope there isn't something regarding aquaponics that is not conducive to hop growing!


It's generally regarded that plants that can be grown hydroponically (and that's most of them) can be grown aquaponically. Of course, that notion requires that we view aquaponics as being the combination of aquaculture and hydroponics......in all of its forms.

I agree with Jagungal that it might be a matter of using drip pots (satellite pots)......or wicking beds using a 60:40 coco-peat/vermiculite mix......rather than the more usual flood and drain grow beds or raft tanks.

Fwoor.....don't let the lack of resources (time, money, land, etc) stop you from conducting a feasibility trial. You can put a handful of goldfish, some small components and a hop plant (or two) together for little money, in little time and almost anywhere.

Gary

[Fwoor]

Hi,


It's generally regarded that plants that can be grown hydroponically (and that's most of them) can be grown aquaponically. Of course, that notion requires that we view aquaponics as being the combination of aquaculture and hydroponics......in all of its forms.


I suppose as hops are in the same family as cannibis this is all but confirmed to work!



Fwoor.....don't let the lack of resources (time, money, land, etc) stop you from conducting a feasibility trial. You can put a handful of goldfish, some small components and a hop plant (or two) together for little money, in little time and almost anywhere.

Gary

Indeed, However as I feel I should be actively studios at the moment (and not reading Aquaponics material), Time is a factor. I will probably put together a 200L drum and grow bed system (for portability) as soon as possible!

Fwoor

[TrinityAquaponics]

I'm really interested in hops for AP, as well. I've looked over hydroponic hops online and it seems the plants do well in those systems. There have been studies that show that plants grown in aquaponics outperform the same hydroponically grown crop. My guess would be that hops would do great in an aquaponic system, but I can't say for sure.
It may be the case that you'd be better off getting rid of the dormant vines come winter and start a new crop from seed in the spring.
I imagine that making a home brewed batch of beer with hops you grew yourself would be an experience in itself even if the flavor wasn't better than beer brewed with bought hops.