Welcome to the PainterFarm
Growing hops in western Pennsylvania
Who
we are
Welcome to the PainterFarm now home to the Painters since early summer 1959. Bill & Helen Painter purchased part of what was the Goehring Farm along with Richard & Frances Baillie from the Reichenbach’s. The farm is now owned by Bill & Helen’s children, Ron and Beth Ann Painter Stamp and her husband Jeff Stamp..
As near as we can tell, the house and barn were built in 1915 which we surmise from a sidewalk stone unearthed when a 1st floor master suite was added in the early 2000’s.
Hops Varieties
Chinook Hops
Chinook Hops is a versatile hop variety prized for its dual-purpose functionality, featuring a high alpha acid content and a distinctive aroma profile of pine, spice, and citrus. Popular in brewing IPAs, stouts, and other robust beer styles, this perennial vine flourishes in well-drained soil under full sun with regular watering. Chinook plants benefit from trellising or support systems to promote vertical growth and optimize cone production. The large cones deliver a bold aroma that enhances the depth and complexity of various brews. Known for its effectiveness in both bittering and aromatic applications, Chinook also boasts disease resistance and high yields, making it a favorite among homebrewers and commercial growers alike. Additionally, Chinook Hops support pollinators and enrich garden biodiversity, contributing to a healthier ecological landscape.
Cascade Hops
Cascade hops, first developed by Professor Elmer Swenson at Oregon State University and released commercially in 1972, have become one of the most popular hop varieties worldwide. Their widespread appeal stems from their excellent flavor profile and strong resistance to disease, pests, and harsh weather conditions.
A key factor in Cascade’s dominance is its highly sought-after citrusy aroma, which is cherished by brewers across the globe. This versatile hop variety complements a range of beer styles, from pale ales and brown ales to the bold flavors of India Pale Ales (IPAs). Its citrusy character continues to make Cascade a cornerstone in the brewing world.
Cascade and Chinook Hops
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Five bines…
So, once upon a time Ron’s son Gregory lived in Pullman WA and he grew five bines of hops to support his home brewing. So, when Ron & Beth bought out their brother and started to think about what to do with 12.5 acres, Greg suggested they grow hops, Hops are a simple crop he said.
So, a “test” bed was started to see what might grow in western PA and it was a small scale since none knew exactly how to grow hops. The variety that grew well initially was Cascade so after a good year, six (6) 50’ rows of Cascade rhizomes were planted, and the Perle variety was planted in the test bed. They did ok and so a 50’ row of Perle was added, and the Chinook variety was added.
The Cascade didn’t do so well in the new hops yards and we learned a little more because someone told us to send a sample to the AAR lab in WI to be tested. That led to having the soil tested by Penn State Extension and the process of learning what was in/what wasn’t in our soil. So we found Seven Springs Farm in VA who helped us understand nutrients and supply us with organics.
In 2024 we expanded to now six (6) rows of Cascade, a row of Perle and two (2) 50’ rows of Cascade. But 2024 saw a lack of rain at precisely the worst time of the growing season. That lead us to find DripDepot in CA who helped us understand how to irrigate and what equipment we needed. So Ron & Beth’s nephew Ed helped put in the irrigation lines - too late for 2024 actually but they are now in. The water came from 150’ of hose from the house - not a long-term solution.
The water issue led to “uncovering” an old spring house on the farm - renovations underway - and that led to finding FuturePump in the UK for the solar pump that will - hopefully - supply the water to irrigate the now 1000’ of hops…five bines and a simple & easy crop to grow…
