Maximum Yield USA 2015 December | Page 90

ACCESSORIZING YOUR GROWROOM Crop Manipulation This collection of accessories is aimed at helping growers with one very important aspect: manipulating their plants to increase yields and the overall value of their crop. A wide range of accessories are available, depending on whether you are producing fruits, vegetables or herbs, and your selected growing technique. For now we’ve focused on the main products that can help with small- to medium-sized indoor endeavors. Trellising – Depending on your room’s size and your budget restrictions, it may be advantageous to develop more vegetative growth in the room and use a SCROG (screen of green) technique to maximize the harvest from every individual plant. Horticulturalists have designed SCROG nets designed for areas up to 16 sq. ft. that will encourage horizontal growth and spread. This allows for more light absorption, faster floral growth and a much heavier endharvest. This technique can also use a range of trellises, ties, weights or specific pruning procedures, but generally a net is the most common means of SCROG gardening. Your local hydroponics shop should have a range of accessories that can help you have fun with advanced plant training and trellising techniques. Cheaper items such as yo-yo hangers with stoppers can help with fruit and flower support during late floral development, while clips and other basic stakes can be a cost-effective means of pushing or relocating branches for optimal light absorption and spacing during both vegetative and floral growth. 88 Maximum Yield USA  |  December 2015