Spent hops advice needed

[john9159]

Hi,
I would like to know what use spent hops have and how can they be incorporated into a compost heap.
Have also noticed wire like creepies in there and the hops going mouldy whilst still in a heap - any thoughts?


Thank you

[Lesley Jay]

Hi John, spent hops are high in nitrogen and act as an activator in a compost bin helping to heat the compost up.

[Goldenlily]

Originally Posted by Lesley Jay

Hi John, spent hops are high in nitrogen and act as an activator in a compost bin helping to heat the compost up.

Hi John,
I have been looking into using spent hops as a mulch after a vist to the local brewery last week. They get the council to take them away because no one wants them. I am going to see if I can get them free of charge if I go and collect them. Might need a drink or two in the brewery after all the hard work of loading then into the car!
Spent hops can be used as a mulch but it needs to be approx. 4/6 ins. deep. They have a high acidity level as well as high nitrogen so are ideal for camellias, rhodedendrons etc. but not for lime loving plants. Do not put them up against the stems of plants as it could cause rot.
Hops can be added to the compost heap,but should be mixed with shredded paper or mixed in with other material from the garden. It might be advisable to sprinkle lime onto the layers of the compost heap if you do not want a high acidity level in your garden.
Apparently the hops have a very low flammability level so will not ignite in prolonged hot spells.