Scrogging refers to a gardening method where plants are trained to spread horizontally along a screen or netting. The term ‘scrogging’ is an abbreviation of ‘SCReen Of Green’, which describes the green leaf canopy that forms over the screen. Although cannabis growers commonly use this technique to enhance yield and quality, it can be used on other plants like tomatoes, peppers, or herbs.
Scrogging has many benefits for both plants and growers. By spreading the branches horizontally, scrogging exposes more bud sites to light and air, which improves their growth and potency. Scrogging also reduces the plants’ height, saving space and making them easier to manage. Scrogging can also prevent pests and diseases by improving air circulation and reducing humidity.
Starting to scrog requires some fundamental materials and tools. A screen or netting with approximately 5 cm (2 inches) diameter holes is necessary. This can be made from chicken wire, nylon mesh, or any other robust material that can bear the weight of your plants. Hooks, nails, or screws are required to secure the screen to your growing area. Scissors or pruning shears are essential to trim your plants. Most importantly, you will need healthy plants that are prepared for training.
What are the steps of Scorgging?
The initial stage of scrogging involves positioning a screen over your plants. The perfect screen height varies based on your plant’s size and strain. Generally, it’s advisable to set it roughly 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) above your pots’ top. This gives your plants enough room to grow beneath the screen without stretching excessively and weakening.
The next phase in the scrogging process involves training your plants to sprawl along the screen. This can be achieved by delicately bending and threading the branches through the mesh of the screen as they expand. If required, you can secure them using string or wire. The aim is to occupy as much of the screen’s space as feasible with a uniform layer of leaves and bud sites. It’s crucial to refrain from allowing branches to overlap or cross, as this can cast shadows and lower the amount of light penetration.
The third phase of scrogging requires regular pruning of your plants. This process entails eliminating non-beneficial growth that doesn’t contribute to the yield or quality of your crop. Pruning should be done on branches beneath the screen, as they get less light and yield smaller buds. Branches growing above the screen should also be pruned to prevent them from obstructing sunlight to the lower bud sites. Pruning any leaves that are starting to yellow, die, or block light to other parts of the plant is also highly recommended.
The last stage of scrogging is to relish your yield. Based on the strain and cultivation conditions, your plants should be prepared for harvest following 8-12 weeks of blooming. There should be a noticeable enhancement in both yield and quality when compared to cultivation without scrogging. Additionally, you should observe a more evenly distributed and thick canopy of resin-coated buds.
Final Note
Scrogging is an uncomplicated and productive method to enhance your gardening abilities and outcomes. By adhering to these steps, you can begin to scrog your plants and enjoy the benefits.
