Hop Shoots Farming in India: Cultivation, Top Cultivars, Benefits & Growing Guide

Why Hop Shoots Are Among the World’s Costliest Crops

Hop Shoots farming has recently become a hot topic among Indian farmers because it is counted among the world’s most expensive crops, with international prices reaching ₹80,000 to ₹1,00,000 per kg. Globally, hop shoot cultivation is common in Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and China. These countries primarily use hop cones in beer production, cosmetics, herbal medicines, and gourmet food products.

In India, Hop shoot farming was introduced decades ago in the cold climates of Himachal Pradesh (Lahaul-Spiti), but farmers discontinued it due to high cost, low market access, and lack of processing facilities. However, interest is rising again because of its huge profit potential, global demand, and increasing popularity of craft beer and medicinal plants.

A Bihar farmer, Amresh Singh, once successfully cultivated Hop Shoots and brought national attention to this crop. If supported properly, Hop Shoots in India could become a game-changing high-value farming option for progressive farmers.

Merikheti.com provides a complete guide covering Hop Shoots Cultivation, climate needs, top cultivars, health benefits, commercial uses, yield, and profit potential—optimised with keywords like Hop Shoot Vegetables, Hop Shoots Benefits, Hop Shoots Health Benefits, Hops cultivation in India, and more.

What Are Hop Shoots? Features of Botanical, Taste & Major Uses

Hop Shoots are the young, tender shoots of the Humulus lupulus plant. They grow from the base of the hop plant in early spring and are harvested when they are soft, green and ready to eat. They are popularly known as Hop Shoot Vegetables, and many chefs claim them to be “one of the world’s most expensive gourmet vegetables.”

Botanical Features

• The plant is a perennial climber, capable of growing 18–30 feet high.
• Hop cones (flowers) are used for brewing beer.
• Only female hop plants are cultivated commercially because they produce aromatic cones.
• From 2–3 meters, roots can go deep inside, by this it hardy and nutrient-efficient.

Taste & Texture

• Fresh hop shoots have a slightly bitter, earthy flavour.
• The flowers (hop cones) have a strong, spicy aroma.
• We can eat shoots as asparagus in the form of grilled, steamed, stir-fried, or added to salads.

Common Uses of Hop Shoots

Beer Brewing Industry

• Hop cones provide bitterness, aroma, and natural foam stability.
• This is the biggest global market for hops.

• Uses of Hop Shoot Vegetables are in salads, soups, pickles, and gourmet dishes, increasing flavour.
• In Europe, chefs serve them as luxury farm-to-table ingredients.

Medicinal & Herbal Uses

• Used in Ayurvedic and herbal medicine for anxiety, insomnia, skin issues, and digestive health.

Cosmetic Industry

• Hop extracts are used in shampoos, creams, and hair tonics.

Nutraceuticals & Wellness

• Rich in antioxidants and polyphenols.
• Increasing demand for health supplements is boosting Hop Shoots farming globally.

Hop Shoots Benefits & Hop Shoots Health Benefits

Hop Shoots are not only used commercially, but they also offer exceptional nutritional and medicinal advantages. Hop Shoots Benefits are widely discussed in the global health, beauty, and wellness industries because of their quality.

1. Rich in Antioxidants

Flavonoids and polyphenols are present in Hop shoots, which help fight free radicals, slow ageing, and boost immunity.

2. Improves Skin Texture & Delays Ageing

Hop extract is used in premium skincare because it:

• Brightens skin
• Reduces wrinkles
• Improves elasticity
• Helps with acne & dark spots

This is why many luxury cosmetic brands use hops in anti-ageing formulations.

3. Boosts Immunity

Hop shoots strengthen the body's natural defence system by:

• Increasing antibody production
• Improving white blood cell performance
• Helping the body fight infections

This is one of the most search-friendly Hop Shoots Health Benefits keywords today.

4. Helps Reduce Stress & Anxiety

Hop extracts have natural sedative properties, making them useful for:

• Anxiety reduction
• Better sleep
• Natural treatment for insomnia

Herbal teas made from hops are trending worldwide.

5. Good for Digestion

Hop shoots stimulate digestive enzymes and:

• Improve metabolism
• Reduce bloating
• Support gut health

Because of this, Hop Shoots in India have growing interest in wellness centres.

6. Anti-inflammatory Properties

Ideal for people with:

• Joint pain
• Arthritis
• Muscle inflammation

7. Regulates Hormonal Imbalance

Hop contains phytoestrogens, which help balance hormones—useful for women’s health.

Climate, Soil & Ideal Conditions for Hop Shoots Cultivation in India

To be successful in harvesting Hop Shoots Farming in India, we have to understand the climate and soil needs. Although hop plants are hardy, they thrive only in specific environments. 

Climate Requirements

Hop plants prefer a cold, temperate climate with long hours of sunlight.

• Ideal temperature: Maximum 19°C, Minimum -25°C
• Requires 6–8 hours of daily sunlight
• Performs best in regions with cold winters

Best Indian Regions for Hop Shoots Farming

Currently, the most suitable locations for Hops cultivation in India include:

• Himachal Pradesh (Lahaul–Spiti)
• Parts of Uttarakhand
• Kashmir Valley
• North-East states with colder elevation zones

Historically, hop farming was successfully done in Himachal Pradesh for nearly 40–45 years, proving that Indian climate zones can support this crop.

Soil Requirements

• Hop plants grow best in:
• Sandy loam or clay loam soil
• Soil rich in organic matter
• Well-drained land with no waterlogging
• pH range: 6.0 to 7.0

Soils near riverbeds are highly suitable because they are fertile and well-drained.

Land Preparation

• Add a 4-inch layer of compost or decomposed manure.
• Deep ploughing to ensure aeration.
• Install vertical support structures (trellis) up to 25–30 feet.
• Create channels for drip irrigation.

Top Hop Shoots Cultivars in India & Worldwide

Cultivar is essential for the increase of yield and quality. For commercial Hop Shoots Cultivation, only a few varieties are recommended because they produce high-quality cones with strong aroma and flavour.

Popular Hop Shoots Cultivars in India

These cultivars have shown the best performance under Indian climatic conditions (especially in Himachal Pradesh):

1. Golden Cluster

• High-yielding
• Good aroma profile
• Suitable for both shoots and brewing

2. Late Cluster

• Matures later in the season
• Strong bitterness, ideal for beer production

3. Hybrid-2

• Disease-resistant
• Excellent shoot quality
• Faster growth compared to traditional hops

These remain the most reliable Hop Shoots Cultivars in India for farmers considering commercial cultivation.

Internationally Popular Hop Varieties

To integrate trending keywords and improve SEO, here are the top global cultivars widely used in the brewing industry:

• Cascade – Famous for citrus aroma
• Centennial – Balanced bitterness
• Citra – Highly aromatic, premium variety
• Saaz – Popular European cultivar
• Fuggle – English heritage variety

Many Indian breweries import these hops due to a lack of domestic production, showing huge potential for hop cultivation in India in the future.

Step-by-Step Guide to Hop Shoots Farming in India

This is the most important part of the blog. Below is a complete, farmer-friendly guide to successful Hop Shoots Farming.

1. Propagation Method

• Hop plants are not grown from seeds for commercial farming.
• They are grown from rhizomes (root tubers).

Why rhizomes?

• Fast growth
• True-to-type plants
• Only female plants can be selected
• Higher shoot and cone yield

2. Field Preparation

Before plantation:

• Add 4 inches of compost across the field.
• Plough 2–3 times until the soil becomes soft.
• Ensure proper drainage—hops do not tolerate standing water.

3. Planting Distance & Layout

Hop plants spread quickly as vines.

 Maintain proper spacing:

• Row-to-row distance: 5–10 feet
• Plant-to-plant distance: 3–4 feet

This ensures sufficient space for upward vine growth.

4. Trellis System (Most Important)

Hop vines can grow 25–30 feet high.

Farmers must build:

• Tall wooden/iron poles
• Strong wires or jute ropes
• Support grids above the field

The vine climbs the rope from the soil to the top.

This system also improves:

• Sunlight exposure
• Air circulation
• Shoot development

5. Irrigation Requirement

Hop plants require moisture up to a depth of 6 inches.

• Drip irrigation is very advisable.
• Avoid over-watering.
• Water every 3–4 days during early growth.

Hop Shoots Cultivation depends heavily on water management, especially in warmer parts of India.

6. Fertiliser & Manure Application

For organic-rich soil:

• 25–30 tons of cow dung manure per acre

For commercial-yield farming:

• Super Phosphate: 250 kg
• Muriate of Potash: 200 kg
• Nitrogen (Urea): 100 kg

Application schedule:

• Apply half of the NPK during planting.
• Apply remaining nitrogen and potash in June–July.

7. Male vs Female Plants

• Hop plants are dioecious:
• Male plants → Not used in farming.
• Female plants → Produce cones used in beer and medicine.

After plantation:

• Identify male plants early.
• Remove and destroy male plants to prevent pollination.
•  Pollination decreases the quality of cones, aroma and bitterness.

8. Pest & Disease Management

Common challenges:

• Downy mildew
• Powdery mildew
• Aphids
• Root rot

Preventive measures:

• Use resistant cultivars
• Maintain proper airflow
• Avoid excess irrigation
• Use sulfur sprays if needed

9. Maturity & Harvesting

Hop plants begin developing cones 2–3 months after plantation.

Harvesting season:

• August to September in India
• Shoots are harvested earlier, during spring

How to identify readiness for harvest?

• Cones turn light yellow-green.
• Inside petals feel papery.
• Aromatic fragrance becomes strong.
• Seeds inside feel dry.

10. Processing & Drying

Fresh hop cones contain 80% moisture.

 They must be dried immediately after harvest.

• Spread cones in thin layers.
• Use hot-air dryers
• Reduce moisture to 6%
• Pack in air-tight vacuum bags

Proper processing increases shelf life up to 1–2 years.

Yield, Income & Profit from Hop Shoots Farming in India

Hop shoots are known globally for their high profitability. When managed properly, this crop can generate exceptional income, even from small landholdings.

Yield Per Acre

Based on global standards and past Indian trials:

• Production per acre: 362 kg – 680 kg of hop cones
• Shoots harvested in early spring provide additional income.

The yield depends on:

• Quality of rhizomes
• Climate
• Trellis height
• Fertilization
• Proper male plant removal

Market Price of Hop Shoots

Hop shoots are famous for their premium price.

• International price: €1,000 per kg
• In India, this equals to ₹80,000 – ₹1,00,000 per kg

Hop cones (used in beer brewing) also fetch very high prices due to import dependency.

Income Potential

If a farmer produces even 400 kg per acre:

400 kg × ₹80,000 = ₹3,20,00,000 per acre

Despite a 30-40% deduction in processing and wastage:

Still, income remains over ₹2 crore per acre, which is why hop shoots are promoted as the world’s most expensive vegetable.

Why High Price?

• Limited global production
• High demand from breweries & gourmet restaurants
• Difficult harvesting
• Expensive processing
• Rare in Asian markets
• Zero domestic competition in India

Although the prices come down in India, the crop is still very profitable.

Cost of Cultivation (Approx per acre)

• Rhizomes: ₹40,000–₹80,000
• Trellis system: ₹1,20,000–₹2,00,000
• Manure & fertilizers: ₹20,000
• Irrigation setup: ₹25,000
• Labour: ₹30,000–₹40,000
• Processing: ₹40,000

Total estimated cost: ₹2.8 lakh – ₹4 lakh per acre

The amount of earnings is in crores, which is very high in terms of the rate of investment (ROI).

Why Farmers Stopped Growing Hop Shoots Earlier?

Even though profitable, Indian farmers stopped cultivating it due to:

• Lack of proper marketing
• Zero processing units
• No buyback assurance
• Very low awareness
• High initial cost

Nevertheless, as the market of craft beer in India is rapidly growing, the demand for herbal supplements increases, and cold-chain facilities become more effective, the hop production can once again be a profitable business among Indian farmers.

Hop Shoots Farming in India: Future and Scope

Farmers are turning to high-value crops as the agriculture sector changes in India. The Hop Shoots farming perfectly falls into this category because it has a worldwide demand, high price tags, and multi-industry use.

1. The Brewing Industry has been growing in demand.

The craft beer market in India is developing at an impressive rate, which increases demand for:

• Hop cones
• Hop extracts
• Hop oils

At present, India is importing close to 100% of hops, and this creates an enormous opportunity for the local farmers.

2. Rising Trend of Medicinal & Herbal Products

Hop shoots are gaining attention in:

• Ayurvedic supplements
• Herbal teas
• Natural anxiety-relief products
• Wellness spas

This increases demand for organically grown hops within India.

3. Luxury Vegetable Market Growth

Five-star hotels, exclusive restaurants and gourmet shops are actively interested in:

• Rare vegetables
• Exotic ingredients
• High-value culinary products

Hop Shoot Vegetables perfectly fit this demand.

4. Government Support for Exotic Crops

States like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and J&K are promoting:

• High-income crops
• Export-oriented farming
• Organic cultivation

With proper policies, Hop Shoots Farming in India can revive strongly.

5. Scope for Contract Farming

Breweries, herbal companies, skincare brands, and nutraceutical firms can partner with farmers through:

• Buyback contracts
• Long-term supply agreements
• Processing support

This will reduce the risk for farmers.

Conclusion: Hop Shoots Farming—A Future Goldmine for Indian Farmers?

According to a deep analysis of Merikheti.com, Hop Shoots Cultivation has the potential to become India’s next big high-value farming revolution. Depending on the prices of its products in the market, which are going up to reach ₹1 lakh per kg, this crop can change the financial life of farmers who have the right climate and the right infrastructure.

Although previous efforts in India were marred by such factors as a lack of access to the market and a lack of market awareness, the current situation is way better. As demand to obtain high-quality hops grows in brewing, herbal medicine, cosmetics, and gourmet cooking, hop farming is expected to reappear in India in vast numbers. 

To summarise, Hop Shoots farming offers:

• Premium international prices
• Strong export potential
• High per-acre profitability
• Growing demand across multiple industries
• Excellent scope for contract farming

For progressive farmers looking for a high-profit, future-proof crop, Hop Shoots are an excellent choice—provided the climate conditions and market access are suitable.

FAQ

1. Is Hop Shoots Farming profitable in India?

Yes. Hop Shoots are the most expensive crops in the world, which are sold in other countries at ₹80,000 to ₹1,00,000/kg. Under the right climatic conditions, rhizomes and the trellis system, the farmers can get high returns as the breweries, gourmet restaurants, herbal medicine, and cosmetic companies highly demand it.

2. Which regions in India are suitable for Hop Shoots Cultivation?

Hop shoots thrive well in cool climates. Appropriate areas are Himachal Pradesh (Lahaul-Spiti), some of Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and cold-elevation areas of the North-East. The regions have the right temperature, light, and moisture that make hop production the best.

3. What are the main uses of Hop Shoots and Hop Cones?

Hop shoots are also consumed as luxury food in salads, pickles, soups and as gourmet vegetables. Hop cones find extensive applications in brewing beer, whereas hop extracts find application in cosmetics, herbal medicine, nutraceuticals and wellness products due to their antioxidant, anti-ageing and anti-inflammatory effects.

4. How are hop plants propagated and harvested?

Rhizomes are used to propagate hop plants, and not the seeds. Rhizomes guarantee the acceleration of growth and female plants. The harvesting of shoots takes place in spring, and the harvesting of hop cones takes place in August-September when the cones are yellow-green in colour, papery and produce a strong smell.

5. Why did Indian farmers stop growing Hop Shoots earlier?

The absence of market awareness, the absence of buy-back support, processing, and high start-up costs caused farmers to stop hop cultivation. Nevertheless, the growing demand by breweries, herb processing industries, and the luxury food market has revived interest, and hop shoots farming is a potentially high-value opportunity nowadays.