Thu Jan 29, 2015 7:01 pm
I don't see the advantage of potted hops as I never had any trouble growing rhizomes. The jumbo rooted rhizomes are supposed to get you in production faster, but you will have a good crop (several ounces per plant) the second season after planting even with regular rhizomes.
Recommend you stay with aroma or dual purpose varieties because, unless you own an HPLC, there is no good way to determine alpha acid content in your hops.
I can't really speak to varieties that grow well in Chicago, but if you check the seller's varieties suggested for your horticultural region it will be pretty accurate.
"Yes officer, I know that I smell like beer. I'm not drinking it, I'm wearing it!"