Hops are a fast-growing and fascinating plant used for flavoring and preserving beer and ales, and in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
A workshop has been scheduled for Aug. 21 to teach participants about the history and uses of hops, what's needed to set up a hop yard, requirements for growing, fertilizing and irrigating, common insect and disease problems and their management, hop processing and marketing opportunities for hops.
The workshop will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Southwest Michigan Research and Education Center.
Hop Workshop Scheduled For August 21
Also on the agenda and to be discussed in detail is choosing hop varieties, installing plants versus rhizomes and specific pest management topics.
A resource list for materials you will need will be included in the handouts given at the workshop. Representatives from local microbreweries will be on hand to discuss hop characteristics and what they contribute to a brew (bittering, aroma, flavor), as well as which varieties they use.
The workshop is designed as an introduction for anyone considering starting a commercial hop yard or becoming a serious, amateur grower. Registration is $35 and includes lunch. Please register by Aug. 14 to ensure an accurate count for lunch.
Contact Jamie at the msue.berrien@county.msu.edu for more information or to register at 1-269-944-4126.
The Southwest Research and Extension Center is located at 1791 Hillandale Rd., Benton Harbor, Mich.