The Screen of Green (ScrOG) method is a popular cannabis growing technique used to maximize yields and create a more even canopy. This guide will walk you through the process, from setup to harvest. By learning how to scrog, you can significantly improve your grow.
What is Scrogging?
ScrOG involves using a screen to train your cannabis plants to grow horizontally. This creates a flat canopy of evenly spaced buds, maximizing light exposure for each cola. Unlike other training techniques like topping or fimming, which focus on manipulating the main stem, scrogging uses a screen to manage the entire plant's growth.
Benefits of Scrogging:
- Increased Yield: Even light distribution leads to more buds.
- Improved Airflow: Prevents mold and mildew.
- Easier Harvesting: All buds are at a similar height.
- Better Light Penetration: Maximizes light use in dense canopies.
Setting Up Your ScroG
Before you begin, gather your materials:
- Screen: Choose a sturdy screen material like netting or chicken wire. The mesh size should be appropriate for your plants. Many growers prefer 4" or 6" squares.
- Support System: This could be a frame made of wood, PVC pipes, or even a pre-made ScroG system. The frame needs to be sturdy enough to support the weight of your plants.
- Plants: Select suitable cannabis strains. Indicas and hybrids generally work well.
- Growing Medium: Soil, coco coir, or hydroponics all work for Scrogging.
Step-by-Step Scrog Setup:
-
Prepare Your Screen: Construct your frame and attach the screen. Position it a few inches above the top of your pots. The height will depend on your grow space and plants.
-
Plant Your Seeds or Seedlings: Carefully place your seedlings or germinate your seeds into their final pots.
-
Early Growth: Let your plants grow to a height of about 6-12 inches (depending on your chosen screen height and plant growth habits). This is the vegetative phase and will vary by strain and environment.
-
Vegative Growth: Allow your plants to develop several branches. This is vital for filling the screen.
-
Weaving Through the Screen: Once your plants are tall enough, carefully weave their branches through the screen's squares. Distribute the branches evenly. Don’t overcrowd any single section.
-
Maintaining the Screen: As your plants grow, continue to weave new shoots and branches through the screen. This keeps them horizontal and encourages lateral growth. Regularly check for areas that may need additional support.
Maintaining Your ScroG
Consistent monitoring and maintenance are crucial for a successful ScrOG grow.
- Regular Watering and Feeding: Ensure your plants receive adequate water and nutrients. Overwatering or underwatering can severely impact your harvest.
- Pruning and Training: Regularly prune lower branches and leaves that may be shading lower buds. This increases airflow and improves light penetration.
- Pest and Disease Control: Keep a close eye for signs of pests or diseases, and act quickly if you find any.
- Light Cycle: Maintain a consistent light cycle for the vegetative and flowering stages. This can vary by strain, but a common cycle is 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness during veg and 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness during flower.
Harvesting Your ScroG
Once your plants reach maturity (usually 8-10 weeks), it's time to harvest. Harvesting is easier with the ScrOG method because all your colas are at roughly the same height.
Signs of Maturity:
- Trichome Maturity: Use a magnifying glass to observe the trichomes (resin glands) on the buds. They should be milky white with some amber.
- Pistiles: The pistils (hair-like structures) will transition from white to amber.
Conclusion
ScrOG is a powerful technique that can significantly boost your cannabis yield. By following these steps and maintaining your plants diligently, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest. Remember to always comply with local laws and regulations regarding cannabis cultivation. Happy growing!
