Hillsborough County issued the following announcement on July 22.
Hillsborough County farmers grow more than 60 crops. In this occasional series we feature a locally grown crop
What varieties of hops are grown here?
Cascade shows the most promise so far. Researchers also have conducted trials with other varieties such as Comet, Nugget, and Zeus.
Where are hops grown in Hillsborough County?
This key flavoring ingredient in beer is grown as an experimental crop at the University of Florida's Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in Balm.
Hops plants reach skyward at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in Balm.
How many acres of hops are planted?
About 2½ acres at the research field.
How many pounds of hops are harvested?
About 1,000 pounds per acre of dried whole cone hops.
When are fresh Hillsborough County hops available locally?
Researchers harvest two crops of the thimble-sized cones each year in Florida: in mid/late June and mid-November. Several local craft breweries have produced beer flavored with hops grown in the Balm field.
Fun fact: Hops production in Florida once was considered impossible due to the hot, humid climate and comparatively short daylight hours. Researchers have shown it's possible to grow hops here with supplemental lighting. The Cascade variety particularly has shown unique quality and flavor characteristics.
Local insight: In limited trials, brewers and their customers give a thumbs-up to beers made with locally-grown hops. Cascade hops harvested here have somewhat of a cantaloupe and honeydew melon flavor, which is unusual and desirable. A remaining challenge is to determine if growing hops is economically feasible for Florida farmers.
Original source can be found here.
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