Multiple Rhizomes Sprout in Planter

bamer101 · Apr 8, 2012

Hey all,

This is my first attempt at growing Hops, and I planted two Cascade rhizomes and two Nugget rhizomes in separate planters. Both rhizomes have sprouted in both planters. It was my understanding that the reason for planting multiple rhizomes per hill/planter was to increase the likelihood of survival. In this case, I'm afraid that the two sprouting rhizomes are going to compete for root space and nutrients and ultimately hinder each other's growth so that they would either die or not produce. Should I try and remove one of the rhizomes from each planter and try transplanting them?

I'd also like to note that these planters are 3.5 gallon pots.

sweetcell · Apr 8, 2012

i'd try separating them but do so very carefully. try to leave one rhizome undisturbed and remove the other while trying to keep as much earth intact around it as possible. 3.5 is a little on the smaller side so 2 plants in one pot = unhappiness.

bamer101 · Apr 8, 2012

Any recommendations on separating them? One has barely sprouted, which leads me to believe that the root system wouldn't be that elaborate. That could just be my own ignorance though. I wouldn't want to damage any of the rhizomes and be left with nothing...

ArrowheadHops · Apr 8, 2012

I would let them be and split them up next year. For first year plants that pot is plenty big and seperating them next year will give you a chance to see what hop roots and rhizomes look like after a year. Just my 2

GVH_Dan · Apr 9, 2012

I would mostly agree to leaving them be for this year, even though 3.5 gallons is too small. I always use pots that are 20 inch diameter or larger for ones I intend to leave in the pot. If you were in the north, this is a definite because there is a good chance one of them won't make it through the winter but in CA they will probably both make it.

Next year, though, it will be hard separate them. The roots will be intertwined. Instead of untangling, you will just have to cut the crown into two pieces as best you can. But if they have a vigorous year this year, they will survive.

badbrew · Apr 9, 2012

I'd take a big scoop and pull one out and transplant to another pot. I don't like crowding as well in any planting I do. Next year, the roots could be a mess to separate. If they are rooted, then be extra sensitive when laying down the roots and try placing them in a neutral medium like potting soil.