Germany: Hops development accelerated by remarkably high temperatures until mid-June

After an exceptionally warm April, temperatures continued to be far above long-term average in Germany the month of May. Rainfalls varied considerably throughout all hop growing regions and did not quite reach monthly averages. Some 400 ha were damaged by hailstorms in the Hallertau and approximately 80 ha in Tettnang, HVG said in their latest report in June.

The remarkably high temperatures continued until mid-June and have accelerated plant development very much so that currently hops are two to three weeks ahead of normal years in all German hop growing regions. Most hops reached trellis height as early as end of May. In early varieties like Hallertau Mittelfrueh, Northern Brewer and in some areas Saphir, too, the plants showed first signs of blooming. An early start of flowering, however, is not favourable for the development of hops. It has to be said, though, that at this early stage it is impossible to give reliable forecasts on crop 2018 as the decisive weeks are yet to come.

Recent weather conditions favoured infestation with spider mites as well as powdery mildew. At present, however, there are no major problems combatting them.

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