Hops (Humulus lupulus) are vigorous climbing plants, recognized for their cones used in brewing beer and as ornamental garden additions. Like many garden plants, hops can be susceptible to wildlife damage, leading growers to question whether deer consume them.
Deer and Hops Interaction
Deer generally do not consider hops a primary food source, largely due to the plant’s bitter compounds and rough texture. However, deer will browse on hop plants when other more palatable food options are scarce. Young, tender shoots are particularly vulnerable in spring and early summer, being less bitter and softer than mature growth. The extent of deer damage varies with local deer population density and the specific time of year. While toxic to some animals like dogs, hops are not considered poisonous to deer.
Protecting Your Hops from Deer
Protecting hop plants from deer involves a combination of deterrent strategies. Physical barriers, such as an 8-foot-high fence, are often the most effective method. For younger plants, temporary enclosures of chicken wire or netting can safeguard vulnerable shoots until they mature and grow out of reach. Repellents, from commercial products to homemade solutions like a mixture of eggs and water, deter deer with their strong odor. Deer can become accustomed to repellents, so rotate types and reapply regularly, particularly after rain.
Scare tactics can also deter deer. Motion-activated sprinklers that spray water, loud noises, or flashing lights are effective, but require variation to prevent habituation. Hanging reflective objects like Mylar tape or clanging tin cans provide visual and auditory deterrents. Some gardeners also report success with human hair or blood meal spread around the plants, as deer are often wary of human scent and the smell of predators. Combining multiple methods consistently yields the best results in managing deer presence.
Other Potential Damage to Hops
While deer can cause damage, other pests and diseases also affect hop plants, sometimes mimicking browsing symptoms. Common insect pests include aphids, such as the damson-hop aphid, which feed on plant sap, causing leaves to curl and wilt. Spider mites are another frequent issue, leading to discoloration and defoliation, especially in warm, dry conditions. Various beetles, leafhoppers, and caterpillars can also chew on leaves and shoots, leaving visible damage.
Beyond insects, hop plants are susceptible to several fungal diseases, including powdery mildew and downy mildew, which manifest as spots or powdery growth on leaves and reduce plant vigor. Verticillium wilt, a soil-borne fungus, can cause wilting and yellowing, potentially leading to plant decline. Small rodents like rabbits and voles might also damage young shoots or chew on roots and rhizomes, particularly during periods of food scarcity. Identifying the specific cause of plant damage is important for effective treatment.