Scrogging is a gardening technique that involves training plants to grow horizontally along a screen or netting. The word scrogging comes from SCReen Of Green, which refers to the green canopy of leaves that covers the screen. Cannabis growers often use scrogging to maximize their yield and quality, but it can also be applied to other plants such as 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.
To start scrogging, you will need some basic materials and tools. You will need a screen or netting with holes of about 5 cm (2 inches) in diameter. Use chicken wire, nylon mesh, or any other sturdy material that can support the weight of your plants. There is a need hooks, nails, or screws to attach the screen to your grow space. You will need some scissors or pruning shears to trim your plants. And, of course, you will need some healthy plants that are ready to be trained.
What are the steps of Scorgging?
The first step of scrogging is to install the screen above your plants. The ideal height of the screen depends on the size and strain of your plants. It is a general rule of thumb to place it about 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) above the top of your pots. You want to leave enough space for your plants to grow under the screen but not too much that they stretch and become weak.
The second step of scrogging is to train your plants to grow along the screen. To do this, you must gently bend and weave the branches through the screen’s holes as they grow. You can use some string or wire to tie them down if needed. The goal is to fill as much of the screen as possible with an even layer of leaves and budsites. You should avoid overlapping or crossing branches, which can create shadows and reduce light penetration.
The third step of scrogging is to prune your plants regularly. This involves removing unwanted growth that does not contribute to your yield or quality. You should prune branches below the screen, as they will receive less light and produce smaller buds. You should also prune any branches that grow above the screen, as they will block sunlight from reaching the lower budsites. It would be best to prune any leaves that are yellowing, dying, or blocking light from other parts of the plant.
The final step of scrogging is to enjoy your harvest. Depending on the strain and growing conditions, your plants should be ready to harvest after 8-12 weeks of flowering. You should notice a significant increase in yield and quality compared to growing without scrogging, and also see a more uniform and dense canopy of buds covered in resin.
Final Note
Scrogging is a simple and effective way to improve your gardening skills and results. Following these steps, you can start scrogging your plants and reap the rewards.
