Rhizomes: What can we expect?

What are Hop Rhizomes exactly? Rhizomes are the roots that are derived from the main root system or crown of a fairly mature hop plant. It takes a few growing seasons for these root systems to develop, let alone produce enough roots that can be cut.

Rhizomes can be procured from varies sources. Most home brew shops and online brewing stores will sell rhizomes to consumers by the each and typically range from about $5 bucks to $8 bucks. Some rhizomes can also be purchased from overseas but as we talked about in a previous post may require some other permits and certificates to import.

The quality of the root stock that you will receive will vary depending mostly on the varietals of Hop Rhizomes are you are ordering. Some of these roots can be very thick after a few years, while others can still remain thinner yet as vigorous. Always inspect your Rhizomes upon arrival to grade quality. Look for strength and avoid pliable or root stock that appears as though it has dried completely to the point where it crumbles when pressed.

The quality will also depend upon the age of the Crown upon which your Rhizome was cut. See the thickness of the rhizomes in the picture below and you will notice considerable differences in size and diameters. This can be due to the age of the system in which these were cut from.

Though there will be differences, size is really not always the best indicator of which rhizomes will produce quality bines. The key very well may be the multiple locations on a healthy root stock that will offer the potential for the quality bines.

These rhizomes may be planted directly into the soil or potted with the buds pointing upwards. We will cover the planting in further posts.

Our orders for Rhizomes is typically complied in late winter for delivery in early Spring for planting after the threat of the last frost.