Sustainable Hops: Growing for a Greener Future This Earth Day
This Earth Day, let's raise a glass to something that's crucial for our favorite brews and the planet: sustainable hops. It's not just about crafting delicious beer; it's about cultivating ingredients in a way that respects and preserves our environment.
The Importance of Sustainable Hop Growing
Sustainable hop growing is crucial for several reasons. It focuses on minimizing environmental impact, reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals, and promoting biodiversity. These practices help protect soil health, conserve water resources, and support local ecosystems. By choosing sustainably grown hops, we contribute to a healthier planet and a more resilient agricultural system.
HOPGUILD Growers Leading the Way
These Guild Growers are at the forefront of sustainable hop cultivation. Let's explore their practices and the specific hop varieties they cultivate:
Pederson Farms
Pederson farms have been cultivating NY Cascade for over 26 harvests. This variety stands out for its remarkable reliability, consistently high yields (upwards of 2,400 pounds per acre), and minimal disease pressure in the New York climate. The ease of picking and drying of Cascade further contributes to its sustainability, reducing labor and energy inputs.
B&D Farms
B&D Farms focuses on varieties with natural resilience.
McKenzie™: This early-pick variety is known for its aggressive growth and self-training ability, reducing labor costs. It also exhibits resistance to downy and powdery mildew, significantly decreasing the need for fungicide sprays. This makes McKenzie an excellent choice for organic growing. Yields average around 2,000 pounds per acre.
WCHB-102: Similar to McKenzie, WCHB-102 is suitable for both conventional and organic farming. Its late-harvest characteristic helps optimize picking capacity. With inherent mildew resistance and a distinct flavor profile of lime zest and pine resin, it's a unique and sustainable option. Yields range from 1,800 to 2,000 pounds per acre.
Crooked Creek Hops
Crooked Creek Hops cultivates NY Triumph, a variety that simplifies hop farming. Triumph requires minimal pruning and training due to its growth patterns. Its strong disease resistance and ease of picking and drying are essential, particularly with its mid-to-late picking window. Yields are 1,200 -1,400 pounds per acre on non-irrigated fields, and upwards of over 1 ton to the acre on irrigated yards.
Locher Hopfen
Locher Hopfen specializes in Mandarina Bavaria, a hop well-suited to hot, dry climates.
This hop variety demonstrates exceptional productivity, yielding an impressive average of 2,300 kg per hectare (2,048 pounds per acre). Its robust nature extends to environmental resilience, as it thrives even in hot and dry climates. Growers can also benefit from reduced maintenance, with this variety requiring 30% less spraying for downy mildew.
Furthermore, Mandarina Bavaria exhibits inherent resistance to mildew, as well as a notable defense against common pests like aphids and spider mites, ultimately requiring one less treatment. The compact structure of its cones contributes to efficient harvesting, while its vibrant green color enhances its visual appeal.
These hop growers exemplify what it means to work in harmony with the Earth. Their practices of reducing chemical use, conserving resources, and focusing on naturally resilient varieties align perfectly with the spirit of Earth Day. By supporting sustainable hop growers, we're contributing to a healthier planet and ensuring that we can enjoy quality beer for years to come.
Looking Ahead
This list is just a start. More growers are moving to more sustainable hop varieties, ensuring the longevity of hop farms for generations to come. Let's celebrate Earth Day by appreciating the efforts of these dedicated farmers and by choosing products that support a sustainable future.
