Hops will definitely grow on a trellis! In fact, a trellis or other support structure is absolutely essential for growing hops successfully. Hops are vigorous climbers that have a natural tendency to seek out something to climb on, so it's important to have a trellis in place before or shortly after planting your hops.
When it comes to choosing a trellis for your hops, there are a few things to consider. First, you'll want to make sure that the trellis is sturdy enough to support the weight of the hop bines as they grow. Hops can reach heights of up to 20 feet or more, so it's important to have a strong support system in place.
There are several types of trellises that can be used for growing hops. One popular option is a vertical trellis system, which consists of tall poles or posts with horizontal wires or strings stretched between them. The hop bines are trained to grow up the trellis, with the strings or wires providing support for the bines to climb.
Another option is a horizontal trellis system, where the hop bines are trained to grow along a horizontal wire or string. This type of trellis is often used in commercial hop production, as it allows for easier harvesting and maintenance of the hops.
In addition to the trellis structure itself, it's important to consider the spacing between the poles or posts. Hops are known for their rapid growth, so you'll want to make sure there is enough space for the bines to spread out as they climb. Typically, a spacing of about 3 to 5 feet between poles is recommended.
When it comes to actually training the hop bines onto the trellis, it's best to do so as soon as they start to grow. Hops are fast climbers and will quickly seek out something to climb on, so it's important to guide them onto the trellis early on. You can gently wrap the bines around the trellis or use twine or clips to secure them in place.
It's worth noting that hops can be quite heavy, especially when they are in full growth during the summer months. This means that your trellis will need to be able to support the weight of the bines, as well as any additional weight from wind or rain. Ensuring that your trellis is strong and secure will help prevent any damage or collapse as the hops grow.
In my personal experience as a brewer and hop grower, I have found that having a well-designed and sturdy trellis system in place is absolutely crucial for successful hop cultivation. Without a trellis, hops can become tangled and difficult to manage, and their growth may be stunted. On the other hand, a properly constructed trellis provides the necessary support for the hop bines to climb and thrive.
Hops will indeed grow on a trellis, and having a trellis in place is essential for their successful cultivation. Whether you choose a vertical or horizontal trellis system, it's important to ensure that the trellis is strong and well-spaced to support the rapid growth of the hops. By providing a trellis for your hops to climb, you'll not only help them reach their full potential, but you'll also make it easier to manage and harvest your hop crop.