total newbie with many questions

[bradvert]

Hello there. I am a first timer and have a question. My next door neighbour has a hop tree and he never uses the hops. I was thinking of making an IPA and would like your help if possible. I have a 5 gal fermentation tub (which I used to make cider last year), a King Keg (which made a unsatifactory brewpak) and a number of demi-johns (dunno if they are needed).
Whay other ingredients would I need and would I need any other equipment? Does anyone have any recipes? Also, would I need to bottle from the king keg or would it keep in my shed. So many questions I know but I would guess that this is the place to ask them?

Tnaks in advance

 

[Tony]

Hi brad
have a look at the FAQs above - lots of help there!
First job is to try to identify the hops on his tree.. any idea what they are?

 

[Dunfie]

First off welcome to the forum. :

I don't want to put you off, you appear to have the enthusiasm, but I agree with Tony that there are some basics that you should read up on before embarking on this journey.

The one you might find the most interesting is Tubby Shaw's "how to" make an Extract Beer. This might help you get to grips with what you will need to make a beer and hopefully use your neighbours hops. It will also probably make you want to ask more questions. :lol:

One last question. You mention that your neighbour has a hop "tree". Can you describe the tree/plant? Perhaps take a photo - we probably won't be able to tell you what variety of hop it is but we should be able to tell you if its safe to use.