thrstyunderwater
Well-Known Member
Here's my short story. I live in Reno, Nevada. Our summers are hot (maybe up to 100 during the day, but normally 80's or 90's for a high). The house to the east just recently cut down all their trees. These trees provided a lot of privacy and shade for my yard. That's all gone.
I'm wanting to plant a fair amount of hops to provide privacy and shade. I already have cascade hops growing along the south side of my house (100% sun), so I know with plenty of water it can be done.
Here are my questions. I'll probably have more, but this is a start.
1. Any recommendations on hops varieties? Obviously Cascades do well, but I'm curious if there are other varieties that do better for shade.
2. What's the tallest hops can grow? I've seen them grow extremely tall when planted next to telephone poles. I assume there's optimal for cone production (not a priority here).
3. I've also noticed some varieties grown 15-20' tall seem to have thin bottoms and then "bush out" once they reach their max. Any way to encourage or discourage this?
4. Will hops follow a 90 degree angle? I've seen pictures online of them growing along the top of a pergola. For some reason I remember being told this isn't ideal. Would love more info on this!
5. Has anyone ever done a hops shade project? Any recommendations?
6. I'm thinking about using stainless steel aircraft cable as my "twine". I'm drawn to this because it's strong, will look nice, and last longer than I'll own the house. Thoughts on stainless steel aircraft cable vs. another material?
Thanks a bunch, I'll do my best to post photos and updates as this project progresses.
I'm wanting to plant a fair amount of hops to provide privacy and shade. I already have cascade hops growing along the south side of my house (100% sun), so I know with plenty of water it can be done.
Here are my questions. I'll probably have more, but this is a start.
1. Any recommendations on hops varieties? Obviously Cascades do well, but I'm curious if there are other varieties that do better for shade.
2. What's the tallest hops can grow? I've seen them grow extremely tall when planted next to telephone poles. I assume there's optimal for cone production (not a priority here).
3. I've also noticed some varieties grown 15-20' tall seem to have thin bottoms and then "bush out" once they reach their max. Any way to encourage or discourage this?
4. Will hops follow a 90 degree angle? I've seen pictures online of them growing along the top of a pergola. For some reason I remember being told this isn't ideal. Would love more info on this!
5. Has anyone ever done a hops shade project? Any recommendations?
6. I'm thinking about using stainless steel aircraft cable as my "twine". I'm drawn to this because it's strong, will look nice, and last longer than I'll own the house. Thoughts on stainless steel aircraft cable vs. another material?
Thanks a bunch, I'll do my best to post photos and updates as this project progresses.