No hop yard would be complete without the V shaped strings extending 18 feet from the base of the hops plants to the top of the trellis. These strings are essential for growing hops because they keep the plants off the ground and allow them to climb towards the sun for optimal summer growing conditions. The task of tying these strings (about 1,800 per acre) should be done as early in the spring as possible so there is no delay in plant growth!
The stringing process is best done with a team of at least 5 people. This allows one person to be the wagon driver, two people to be tying strings to the top of the trellis while the other group puts the strings in the ground. Tying the strings and inserting them in the ground simultaneously reduces the chance of the wind causing tangled strings. If possible, waiting for days with minimal wind makes the process much more efficient and enjoyable!
