Features, Meeker

Hop to it …

Beer has been a part of human history for 5,000 years, and homebrewing and microbreweries have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity during the last 20 years, especially in Colorado. Hops, which provide flavor and act as a preservative, are an essential ingredient in beer. 

The hop plant is a rhizome, with an underground root system that grows horizontally and can produce new shoots and stems. Bearded irises are another rhizome.

COURTESY PHOTO

The hop plant…