2 month mark observations
Despite and because of my best efforts, there are only 2 Comet and 2 Tahoma still growing and looking good from the 12 total rhizomes planted. They are about 4 feet up the twine now. There is also a Hallertauer and a Cascade that have managed to survive and are attempting to restart...but it looks to still be a tenuous situation. R.I.P. Centennial and Sorachi Ace...you deserved better.
The combined devastation of the white fly and my treatment to eradicate them was an overall depressing experience. Talking to AgExtension, white fly is a notorious pest for our area early in the growing season. I followed the directions for diluting and applying an organic insecticide, but damaged the plants as well. I further diluted it for a second application at the reemergence of white fly and again placed the plants under more stress to the point to of stunted growth, defoliation, and eventual death of the shoots.
Next year, I’m going to try a more organic approach...no more spraying. I’ll establish tons of beneficial herbs and flowers in smaller containers early in the spring. I’m also going to throw a sacrificial squash or okra somewhere out there as well. Oh...and yellow sticky traps. Then hopefully in late spring there will be a more hop-friendly environment for plant stock from a company like GLH.