How do you grow your hops?

[Maritimer]

My aunt has some hops in her yard that she has repeatedly tried to destroy. Why you ask? I don't know. Anyway, I have since told her that I will be by to dig them up and remove them. I have a few questions for the hop growers out there:

Transplanting:
I'm planning on digging up the entire root structure (as much as possible) and simply moving it to my house. I've been told I shouldn't transplant until it's cooler out, like in the fall. Is this true? I'd like to get them in the ground as soon as I can.

Location:
Are you planting in full direct sunlight? afternoon sun? I have a prime spot but it is west facing, would it be wise to plant them is a spot where they get direct sun for the entire day?

soil type:
sand? peat? fertilizer? mulch?

Basically I'd like to gain from your experience, know what your hop growing set up is, what your yield is etc.

Thanks.

[jeffsmith]

I'm not a pro, but from what I've gathered and what has worked for me: as much sun exposure as possible and well draining soil, peat would likely be a great addition. Fertilizer is also a great addition. I personally use Miracle Gro, but I'm sure wortly can advise better on the proper combo to use.

[akr71]

I'm with Jeff - well draining, but not sandy soil. Direct sun.

Transplant in cooler weather, yes. General rule is don't transplant if the current month has an 'r' in it - at least for trees and shrubs, but established hops have such an extensive root system, I would wait until mid to late September.