SCROG Cannabis: Complete Guide To The Screen Of Green Method
What Is SCROG Cannabis?
SCROG cannabis refers to growing cannabis using the Screen Of Green (SCROG) method, where plants are trained horizontally under a screen or net to create a flat, even canopy.
Instead of letting plants grow upward naturally, SCROG spreads growth sideways so every flowering site receives similar light intensity.
The goal is:
- maximum light efficiency
- fewer plants
- larger, more even colas
- controlled height
SCROG is especially useful in indoor grows with limited vertical space.
Why The SCROG Method Works
SCROG works by controlling apical dominance and redistributing growth hormones across many flowering sites.
Key principles:
- horizontal growth reduces dominance of a single top
- even canopy = even light distribution
- more bud sites receive optimal light
- energy is spread across the screen
Instead of one main cola, SCROG produces many evenly sized colas from one or a few plants.
SCROG Cannabis vs Other Training Methods
| Method | Plants | Veg Time | Training | Goal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SCROG | Few | Long | High | Max yield per plant |
| SOG | Many | Short | Minimal | Max yield per square foot |
| Mainlining | Few | Long | High | Perfect symmetry |
| LST | Any | Medium | Low | Gentle control |
SCROG prioritizes control and efficiency, not speed.
When SCROG Cannabis Makes Sense
SCROG is ideal if:
- plant count is limited
- vertical space is restricted
- you want to maximize one plant
- you enjoy hands-on training
- longer veg times are acceptable
SCROG is usually a poor choice if:
- you want fast harvests
- you dislike daily plant interaction
- you grow many plants at once
Best Strains For SCROG Cannabis
SCROG works best with strains that:
- stretch moderately
- branch well
- recover quickly from training
- tolerate extended veg
Good examples include:
Many of these are available as High THC seeds.
How To SCROG Cannabis Step By Step
This is a practical, beginner-safe framework.
Step 1: Veg The Plant Until It Reaches The Screen
- Install the screen 8–14 inches above the pot
- Allow the plant to grow up to the screen naturally
- Do not rush this stage
Strong roots and healthy growth are critical before training begins.
Step 2: Start Weaving Branches Under The Screen
As branches reach the screen:
- gently bend them sideways
- guide them into empty squares
- avoid snapping or creasing
This process redistributes growth hormones and encourages lateral development.
For gentle bending techniques, see low stress training.
Step 3: Fill 60–80% Of The Screen Before Flowering
Do not flip too early.
Most growers switch to flower when:
- 60–80% of the screen is filled
- growth looks healthy and relaxed
- branches respond well to bending
Stretch during early flower will fill the rest.
Step 4: Flip To Flower And Continue Training
During the first 2 weeks of flowering:
- keep tucking and guiding new growth
- maintain even canopy height
Once stretch slows, stop weaving and let buds form vertically.
Step 5: Maintain Environment Carefully
Dense canopies require:
- strong but gentle airflow
- controlled humidity
- stable temperatures
Flowering humidity should be managed carefully to avoid mold. For reference, see best humidity for cannabis and grow room temperature and humidity.
Screen Height And Net Size
General guidelines:
| Grow Size | Screen Height | Mesh Size |
|---|---|---|
| Small tent | 8–10 in | 2–3 in |
| Medium tent | 10–12 in | 2–4 in |
| Large room | 12–16 in | 3–4 in |
Smaller mesh allows finer control.
SCROG Cannabis And Autoflowers
SCROG is not ideal for autoflowers.
Autoflowers:
- flower on a fixed timeline
- may not recover from training
- stretch unpredictably
Photoperiod strains give you full control.
Common Mistakes With SCROG Cannabis
| Mistake | Why It’s A Problem |
|---|---|
| Flipping too early | Wasted screen space |
| Over-bending branches | Stress or damage |
| Poor airflow | Mold risk |
| Uneven training | Uneven canopy |
| Impatience | Reduced yield |
SCROG Cannabis Yield Expectations
SCROG does not guarantee massive yields automatically.
It improves:
- light efficiency
- bud uniformity
- space usage
Yield depends on:
- genetics
- veg time
- environment
- grower consistency
Final Thoughts On SCROG Cannabis
SCROG cannabis is about precision and control.
It trades time for efficiency, allowing a small number of plants to fully occupy your grow space and receive optimal light exposure.
SCROG works best with stable, vigorous genetics that handle training well. Choosing reliable weed seeds makes the process smoother and the results more predictable.
SCROG is not fast. It is not passive. But when done well, it is one of the most efficient ways to grow cannabis indoors.
FAQ: SCROG Cannabis
What does SCROG mean in cannabis growing?
Screen Of Green, a method using a net to spread plant growth horizontally.
How many plants do you need for SCROG?
Usually one to four plants.
Is SCROG better than SOG?
SCROG favors fewer plants and more control. SOG favors speed.
When should I flip to flower in SCROG?
When 60–80% of the screen is filled.
Is SCROG beginner friendly?
Yes, if you are patient and consistent.
