Maximize your indoor grow space and increase your harvest with these tried-and-true LST techniques
Low stress training (LST) is a simple yet effective technique that can help you get the most out of your indoor cannabis grow. LST is used to manipulate the shape and structure of cannabis plants in order to increase yield. LST is achieved by gently bending and tying down branches to create a more even canopy, which allows for more even light distribution and increased bud production. In this article, we'll share five expert tips for maximizing your yield with LST.
Topping
Bending
Supercropping
Tip 1: Choose the Right Strains
Not all cannabis strains are equally suitable for low stress training. Indica-dominant strains tend to be more flexible and easier to train, while sativa-dominant strains may be more brittle and prone to breaking. When selecting strains for LST, consider factors such as plant structure, growth patterns, and desired effects.
Some popular strains that are well-suited to LST include Afgoo Overdrive, Jesus-OG, and even some classics like Super-Silver-Haze. These strains are known for their sturdy growth and high resin production, making them ideal candidates for LST.
Tip 2: Start LST Early
The earlier you start low stress training, the better. By beginning LST on young plants, you can more easily shape and guide their growth to your desired canopy structure. When starting LST, choose a central stem or branch and gently bend it down, securing it in place with a plant tie or clip.
It's important to be careful not to overstress the plant when training. Use a gentle touch and avoid pulling or tugging on the branches too hard. It's also a good idea to check the ties regularly to make sure they are not cutting into the stem or branches.
Tip 3: Use the Right Tools
To effectively perform low stress training, you'll need a few basic tools. Plant ties or clips, such as wire or soft fabric ties, are essential for securing the branches in place. You may also find it helpful to have a set of pruning shears or scissors for trimming away excess growth or shaping the plant.
When choosing plant ties or clips, look for ones that are strong yet gentle on the plants. Avoid using materials that could damage the stems or branches, such as rubber bands or twine. It's also a good idea to have a range of sizes available, as different parts of the plant may require different tie sizes.
Tip 4: Monitor and Adjust as Needed
Low stress training is not a set-it-and-forget-it process. It's important to regularly monitor your plants and make adjustments as needed to ensure that they are responding well to the training. Pay attention to how the plants are growing and how the canopy is developing, and make adjustments as needed to create an even, balanced structure.
If you notice that some branches are not getting enough light or are growing too close together, try adjusting the ties or pruning away excess growth. It's also a good idea to keep an eye out for signs of stress or damage, such as yellowing leaves or broken branches.
Tip 5: Don't Overdo It
While low stress training can be an effective way to increase yield, it's important not to overdo it. Too much training can lead to stressed or damaged plants, which can ultimately reduce yield. It's a good idea to start slowly and gradually increase the amount of training as the plants grow and mature.
If you notice that your plants are becoming overtrained or are showing signs of stress, it may be time to give them a break. This can involve reducing the amount of training, removing some of the ties, or allowing the plants to grow undisturbed for a period of time.
Steps for LST Topping
Topping
- Choose a strong, healthy branch near the top of the plant (the main stem).
- Locate the growth tip (also known as the apical meristem) on the main stem and gently bend the surrounding leaves down until you can see the last set of nodes.
- Using clean scissors or clippers, carefully remove the tip.
- Allow the plant to grow a few days And soon you'll see the branches start to take off.
Steps for LST Bending
Bending
- Choose a strong, healthy branch near the top of the plant to serve as the main stem.
- Locate the growth tip (also known as the apical meristem) on the main stem and gently bend it down until it is parallel with the soil.
- Secure the bent stem in place with a plant tie or clip, being careful not to damage the stem.
- Allow the bent stem to grow horizontally for a few days to allow it to recover from the stress of bending.
- Once the stem has recovered, gently bend the growth tip down again and secure it in place with a plant tie or clip.
- Repeat this process as needed, bending and securing the growth tip every few days until the desired shape is achieved.
Steps for LST Supercropping
Supercropping
- Identify a strong, healthy branch on the cannabis plant that is at least a few inches long and has several sets of leaves.
- Locate the area on the branch where the stem is the softest and most pliable, usually about halfway between the leaves and the base of the stem.
- Gently bend the stem at the identified spot until it is almost parallel with the soil.
- Use your fingers to apply gentle pressure to the stem, pressing down on either side of the bend to create a small crease or "crush" in the stem.
- Secure the crushed stem in place with a plant tie or clip, being careful not to damage the stem or apply too much pressure.
- Allow the crushed stem to recover for a few days before gently bending and crushing it again in the same spot.
- Repeat this process as needed, crushing and securing the stem every few days until the desired shape is achieved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I use LST in my indoor cannabis grow?
LST can be especially beneficial for indoor grows because it allows you to maximize the use of your grow space and lighting. By evenly distributing your plants' canopy, you can increase the number of buds produced and improve overall yield.
How long does it take for LST to show results?
<
p>The results of LST can vary depending on the strain and the growing conditions, but most growers start to see a difference within a few weeks of training. It is important to be consistent and patient with LST, as it can take some time for the plants to fully respond to the training.
What are the potential risks or downsides of using LST?
While low stress training is generally a safe and effective technique, there are a few potential risks or downsides to consider. If the branches are tied too tightly or left in place for too long, they may become damaged or stressed. It's important to be gentle with the plants and to regularly check the ties to make sure they are not causing any issues.
Another potential risk of LST is that it can expose the plants to pests or diseases that might not have been an issue otherwise. By bending and manipulating the branches, you may be creating new entry points for pests or increasing the plants' exposure to humid or damp conditions, which can lead to problems. To minimize these risks, it's a good idea to keep your grow room clean and well-ventilated, and to regularly check your plants for signs of pests or disease.
How often should I perform LST on my plants?
The frequency of low stress training will depend on the growth stage of your plants and the desired level of training. During the vegetative stage, you may want to perform LST more frequently to shape and guide the plants' growth. During the flowering stage, you may want to decrease the amount of training to allow the plants to focus on bud production.
As a general rule, it's a good idea to check your plants every few days and make adjustments as needed. Be sure to pay attention to the plants' growth patterns and respond accordingly, but avoid overtraining or stressing the plants.
Can LST be used in conjunction with other training techniques, such as topping or supercropping?
Low stress training can be used in conjunction with other training techniques, such as topping or supercropping, to further shape and structure the plants. However, it's important to be careful when combining training techniques, as the plants may be more prone to stress or damage. It's a good idea to thoroughly research each technique and consider the plants' needs before combining them.
How can I tell if my plants are being stressed or damaged by the LST process?
There are a few signs to look for to determine if your plants are being overly stressed training process. These include yellowing or wilting leaves, broken or damaged branches, and slowed or stunted growth. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to reduce the amount of training and allow the plants to grow undisturbed for a while.
It's also a good idea to pay attention to the ties or clips used for training. If they are too tight or have cut into the stems or branches, the plants may be experiencing stress or damage. Be sure to check the ties regularly and adjust them as needed to avoid these issues.
Can LST be used on both vegetative and flowering plants, or is it only suitable for certain stages of growth?
Low stress training CAN be used at any during the vegetative stage. During this time, the plants are more flexible and responsive to training, making it easier to shape and guide their growth. In the flowering stage, the plants may be more woody/brittle and less receptive to training, not to mention that this whole process is to maximize your harvest, let them flower.
That being said, it is still possible to use LST during the flowering stage to make minor adjustments to the canopy structure. Just be sure to use a gentle touch and avoid stressing the plants too much.
Can LST be used on plants grown in soil, hydroponics, or other mediums?
Low stress training can be used on cannabis plants grown in a variety of mediums, including soil, hydroponics, and other soil-less mixes. The key is to choose a medium that is well-suited to the needs of your plants and provides adequate support for the branches during training. It's also important to follow proper watering and fertilizing practices for your chosen medium to ensure that the plants are getting the nutrients they need to thrive.
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