corhops

Corhops is a term that refers to the process of hop plants growing in a circular or spiraling pattern. This can occur naturally due to the plant's inherent growth habit or as a result of environmental factors. Hop vines are naturally twining plants, meaning they seek out support and wrap around it. When this support is not readily available or is structured in a way that encourages circular growth, chorhops can manifest.

Factors contributing to chorhops include the density of neighboring plants, the type of trellis or support structure used, and even the prevailing wind direction. In some cases, if a hop plant starts to grow downwards before finding an upward support, it can create a loop that then continues to spiral. While not a disease or pest, chorhops can sometimes affect the overall health and yield of a hop plant. Excessive coiling can lead to tighter, potentially constricted growth, which might hinder nutrient and water transport.

Growers may sometimes need to intervene to untangle or redirect spiraling vines to ensure optimal growth and sunlight exposure. However, in many instances, hop plants naturally adjust their growth patterns, and minor chorhops do not significantly impact the plant's ability to produce cones. The term is primarily used within the horticultural and brewing communities to describe this specific growth phenomenon.