Hi all, I have been growing some hops over the past few years, very minute amounts just a few plants, but I am now considering starting a larger scale farm, I have about 20 acres I could use for growing. I am however hesitant as I am unsure if hop prices will remain as high as they are and if I could make a living off of just that much. Any advise?
Starting a hop farm?
- Thread starter lucka
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There are many things to consider. I think hops are likely to stay desirable to brewers for a while. Price depends on how well the big growing areas do each season and a few other factors.
How you would go about growing depends on where you live, your soil, sunlight, water, etc. The same stuff all growers need to think about.
Some of the more popular varieties are proprietary right now. You maybe need to enter into an agreement to grow and sell them.
Do much research online. Contact other growers. I know in Michigan there is a group dedicated to expanding the hop growing industry in the state. The Michigan Hop Alliance helps growers share information, equipment, and other things in order to encourage growing. The west part of the state has a good climate and soil for growing hops due to Lake Michigan.
How you would go about growing depends on where you live, your soil, sunlight, water, etc. The same stuff all growers need to think about.
Some of the more popular varieties are proprietary right now. You maybe need to enter into an agreement to grow and sell them.
Do much research online. Contact other growers. I know in Michigan there is a group dedicated to expanding the hop growing industry in the state. The Michigan Hop Alliance helps growers share information, equipment, and other things in order to encourage growing. The west part of the state has a good climate and soil for growing hops due to Lake Michigan.
Check this podcast out, http://www.trellistotable.com/. Lots of interviews with very small growers but also a few with folks from Cornell and the like that actually break the numbers down as to what's really involved to make a profit.
Go to Michigan State's website: http://msue.anr.msu.edu/resources/estimated_costs_of_producing_hops_in_michigan_e3236
This will help you with a business plan. USA Hops is also refining that tool for more of the US.
Take some courses. They are all over the US.
Watch the Lupulin exchange to see what hop varieties are really worth.
This will help you with a business plan. USA Hops is also refining that tool for more of the US.
Take some courses. They are all over the US.
Watch the Lupulin exchange to see what hop varieties are really worth.
