Training & Plant Architecture
SCROG & Canopy Distribution
A screen can redistribute growing shoots across horizontal space, but canopy quality still depends on branch vigor, leaf area, light distribution, airflow, and access.
Key concepts
- The screen is a positioning tool, not a biological requirement
- Filling every opening can reduce airflow and access
- Uniform canopy height can improve light uniformity only if fixture distribution is also appropriate
- Late repositioning can damage stiff flowering branches
What to measure or observe
- Map occupied screen area
- Measure light across several canopy positions
- Check airflow below and through the canopy
- Maintain access for inspection
Common mistakes
- Overfilling the screen
- Using one center PPFD reading
- Losing access to lower stems and root zones
- Training rigid branches too late
Visuals this lesson still needs
- SCROG top-down map
- Canopy PPFD overlay
- Airflow cross section
- Access and inspection layout