Earlier this year, we began hearing about the hops shortages that were affecting the beer-making industry and were especially hard-hitting to micro-brewers and home-brewers. Many years ago when we brewed our own beer, we planted several hops vines of assorted varieties in the perennial garden by the outhouse. By the time the vines were producing, our brewing days had passed. For years, they draped the outhouse and would be cut off and fed to the goats. But this year, Ralph decided to get a legitimate harvest out of the mature vines and installed a trellis. 
His vines grew, grew and grew some more.
Harvest time is upon us and Ralph's out there on his scaffolding. The initial plan was to be able to drop the guide wires, but the vines entwined the top rail of the trellis and this is now not possible. So it's up in the air for Ralph. Good thing he's not afraid of heights.
Until they are gone, we will be selling the hops--Cascade & Centennial--from the farm and at the Carlisle Central Farmers Market on Saturdays.
You two are hopping along,,,in the Garlic Patch,,,to the Fair & win a Blue Ribbon & now you are "hopping" along to the Hops Patch,,,I love your blog & the wonderful pictures. I live in the city in the Carolina's,,,it is like a vacation to see what you put up each time..you are both so much fun. Thanks for shareing,,,keep hopping along!!
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