There are a number of diseases and pests that affect hops. An infestation can often only be detected when it is almost too late. Hop care therefore includes regularly examining the plants for changes in leaves, flowers and fruits. How to identify diseases and pests.
What diseases and pests occur in hops and how can they be treated?
The most common hop diseases are hop wilt, powdery mildew, hop aphid and red spider mite. As a preventive measure, powdery mildew-resistant varieties can be grown, tendrils can be reduced and the plants can be supplied with nutrients. Pests can be controlled with nettle decoction or suitable sprays.
These diseases and pests occur
- Hop wilt
- Powdery mildew
- Hop aphid
- Red spider mite
Identifying and treating hop wilt
Hop wilt is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots and young shoot tips. It clogs the water-carrying veins and causes the plant to wilt and eventually die.
If hop wilt occurs, there is no help. You must remove the entire plant and dispose of it with household waste.
Fighting powdery mildew
Powdery mildew occurs in very warm weather and is favored by dense leaves. It appears as a whitish coating mainly on the tops of the leaves.
Cut off affected leaves. Throw them in the trash.
What to do about pests?
Pests are usually only noticed once the infestation has spread. If the leaves and buds are covered with a greasy layer, it is the hop aphid. You can recognize the red spider mite by the leaves and buds, which turn coppery red.
To save the plant, you can try to combat the pests with nettle decoction. There are also sprays available in stores (€117.00 on Amazon) that are also suitable for growing vegetables. After using sprays, you should avoid harvesting the fruit and eating the hops.
Prevent diseases and pest infestations
The weather and plants that are too close together are often responsible for the appearance of harmful fungi and pests. As a preventative measure, you should choose mildew-resistant varieties for cultivation in the garden.
Don't leave too many hop vines on one plant. Cut off all shoots except for a maximum of ten tendrils.
Ensure that the hops have sufficient nutrients available. Occasional watering with manure from nettles or field horsetail has a preventive effect.
Tip
If the hops are affected by powdery mildew, old home remedies sometimes help. Spray the leaves and stems several times with diluted fresh milk. Since the climbing plant grows very tall, combating it can prove to be quite difficult.
