Hops is a climbing plant that grows very quickly and can still be kept in a pot. This is why it is the ideal plant for greening balconies and pergolas. The only important thing is that you have a climbing aid available around which the tendrils can wind upwards.
How do I grow hops on the balcony?
Hops can be grown as a fast-growing climbing plant on the balcony. Choose a large container, ensure good drainage and water and fertilize regularly. Offer climbing aids and protect the pot from frost in winter.
Growing hops on the balcony
Creating a suitable privacy screen from plants on the balcony is not that easy. Just try it with hops.
The climbing plant grows very quickly if it receives sufficient moisture and nutrients.
Unlike ivy or wine, hops leave no marks or stains on the masonry. This is an important consideration, especially for tenants.
Trellises on the balcony
There is usually already a trellis on the balcony - the balcony railing. However, it is usually not high enough, but can be made higher with additional rods. You can also make a suitable climbing aid from sturdy ropes.
Water hops in the bucket frequently
If you grow hops in the bucket, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
- Large bucket
- good drainage
- water frequently
- fertilize regularly
- If necessary, support hop tendrils when climbing
- protect from frost in winter
Hops do not tolerate waterlogging any more than they tolerate drought. Make sure the pot has a large drainage hole and, to be on the safe side, add drainage.
Water the hops regularly, as the plant constantly evaporates moisture through its many leaves. You also have to fertilize hops in the bucket regularly.
Provide winter protection on the balcony
Hops are absolutely hardy outdoors. The plant shrinks and does not need any protection. Things are different when breeding in a bucket. Here the earth freezes faster and the hops dry out.
In the fall, place the pot on a Styrofoam plate (€56.00 on Amazon) or other sealing material. Wrap the pot in bubble wrap and cover the plant from above. Then the hops can survive even very cold winters on the balcony.
Tip
Hops tolerate shady locations as long as they are light enough. It is therefore the ideal plant for north-facing balconies or pergolas. However, the female fruits only form if the hops receive enough sun.
