The cultivation of cannabis plants involves various techniques and practices aimed at improving plant health and yield. Some of the most effective techniques revolve around cannabis training, which manipulates the plant’s growth pattern to maximize light exposure and nutrient uptake, resulting in greater yield. This article provides an in-depth look at several of these techniques, their advantages, and practical applications.
Low Stress Training
Low Stress Training (LST) is a technique utilized by cannabis growers to control plant growth by gently bending and tying the plant’s branches. This method exposes more parts of the plant to light, which leads to increased photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy. More light exposure across a broader canopy facilitates healthier growth and, consequently, a larger yield.
Typically, this technique involves bending the stem gently to a horizontal position and securing it in place with string, wire, or plant ties. The plants then grow horizontally, and the buds that were previously growing vertically start to grow outwards, creating a “bushy” appearance. The LST method is most effective when applied in the early stages of plant development.
This technique has two main advantages: it minimizes plant stress and allows for optimal light distribution. It’s important to note, however, that it requires constant monitoring and adjustments as the plant grows, which may be a drawback for some growers.
Screen of Green
The Screen of Green technique, often shortened to ScrOG, involves placing a screen or net over the cannabis plants when they’re in the early stages of growth. As the plant grows, the branches are woven through the screen, which helps distribute light evenly across the plant and keep the canopy level. The ScrOG technique is especially useful in indoor grow operations where space might be limited.
Similar to LST, ScrOG capitalizes on the principle of increased light exposure resulting in higher yields. However, it also aids in controlling plant height, which can be beneficial in indoor settings with height limitations. This technique requires careful planning, as the screen needs to be set at the appropriate height, and the plant branches must be gently woven through it as they grow.
High-Stress Training
High-Stress Training (HST) techniques, such as topping and super cropping, involve more aggressive methods of manipulating plant growth that result in higher stress for the plant. These methods, however, can lead to higher yields if executed correctly.
Topping
Topping is a high-stress technique where the main stem’s tip is cut off to encourage the plant to grow multiple branches instead of one dominant stem. This results in a bushier plant with more bud sites, leading to a greater yield. Topping should be done in the vegetative phase, as doing so during the flowering stage could significantly stress the plant and potentially damage the yield.
Super Cropping
Super cropping is another high-stress method that involves gently breaking the inner tissue of the stem, forcing the plant to heal itself by strengthening the damaged area. This stress response results in a thicker stem, which can transport nutrients more efficiently, leading to increased bud development and yield. The stem should be pinched and bent at a 90-degree angle but not fully broken off. Super cropping is also done in the vegetative phase of the plant’s growth cycle.
Conclusion
Training cannabis plants can significantly boost yields and optimize space and light utilization in your grow operation. Each technique comes with its benefits and considerations. Low-stress techniques like LST and ScrOG are less risky and can be utilized by novice growers looking to improve their yields without the fear of significantly damaging their plants. In contrast, high-stress techniques like topping and super cropping may yield higher returns, but require a higher degree of care, skill, and experience.
It’s important for growers to understand that cannabis plants are living organisms that react to their environment and their treatment. The success of these techniques depends largely on the individual plant’s health and strain, as well as the grower’s attention to detail and consistency in applying these methods. By training your cannabis plants, you can cultivate a healthier garden, more abundant harvests, and ultimately, a better end product.