Most people think of hops as just the “soul of beer,” but this plant is so much more than a brewery staple! It’s a fantastic medicinal herb, produces delicious edible shoots, and makes for a stunning natural privacy screen. The best part? You don’t need a huge backyard to grow it. Hops do surprisingly well in containers, making them a perfect addition to your balcony garden.
Why growing hops in pots is a game-changer
If you plant hops directly in the ground, you’ve got to keep a close eye on them—they are vigorous growers and can take over your garden before you know it. Growing them in a pot makes life a whole lot easier. Since the roots are contained, the plant won’t get quite as massive as it would in the wild. Here’s why I love container-grown hops:
- It keeps their spreading habit in check.
- The plant stays at a more manageable height.
- You can easily move the pot around to find the perfect sun.
- It allows you to enjoy hops on your balcony or patio.
How to keep your potted hops happy
In the garden, hops are pretty low-maintenance and usually just need a good pruning. In a container, they need a little more “TLC.” The biggest rule? Avoid soggy feet! Make sure your pot has plenty of drainage holes so water doesn’t pool at the bottom. On the flip side, you don’t want the soil to bone dry, either. During those scorching summer days, you’ll likely need to water them quite often. Don’t forget to feed them, too! A standard vegetable fertilizer once a month works wonders, or if you’re feeling extra “green,” you can use homemade nettle tea.
Winterizing your hops
When the cold weather hits, your potted hops will need a bit of protection. Even though hops are generally hardy, the roots are more vulnerable to freezing when they’re in a pot above ground. I recommend placing the pot on an insulated surface, like a piece of Styrofoam, and wrapping the container in bubble wrap or a thick outdoor blanket.
One pro tip: Don’t prune your plant back before winter! Leave the withered vines in the pot to provide a bit of natural insulation. Wait until spring—around February is usually perfect—to cut them back right before the new growth starts. That’s also the best time to give your hops some fresh soil and repot them if they’ve outgrown their home.
