LST, or Low-Stress Training, is a technique used in the cultivation of cannabis. This method involves gently bending and tying the branches of the plant to change its physical shape and growth pattern. The primary goal of LST is to allow the plant to receive more light, which can lead to increased yield. Unlike other training methods, LST does not involve cutting or pruning the plant, thus reducing the amount of stress the plant experiences.
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The Science Behind LST
The science behind LST is rooted in a plant’s natural response to light, known as phototropism. Plants naturally grow towards their light source. By bending and tying down branches, growers can manipulate the plant’s shape to expose more of its lower branches to the light source. This results in a more even canopy, where all buds receive the same amount of light, leading to a more uniform and potentially larger yield.
Benefits of LST
LST offers several benefits to growers:
- Increased Yield: By exposing more of the plant to light, LST can lead to a larger yield.
- Better Light Distribution: LST allows for a more even distribution of light, which can result in more buds.
- Height Control: LST can help control the height of the plant, which is particularly useful in indoor grows with limited space.
- Reduced Stress: Unlike other training methods, LST does not involve cutting or pruning the plant, reducing the amount of stress it experiences.
How to Implement LST
Implementing LST involves a few key steps:
- Start Early: It’s best to start LST when the plant is still young and its stems are flexible. This makes it easier to bend and shape the plant without causing damage.
- Bend and Secure: Gently bend the plant’s branches away from the center and secure them in place using soft ties. Be careful not to damage the plant’s stems or branches.
- Monitor and Adjust: As the plant grows, continue to adjust the ties to maintain the desired shape. The goal is to create a flat, even canopy where all buds receive the same amount of light.
- Repeat: Continue this process throughout the plant’s vegetative stage. As the plant enters the flowering stage, stop adjusting the ties to allow the plant to focus its energy on bud production.
Remember, the goal of LST is to create a more even canopy and expose more of the plant to light. This can lead to a larger, more uniform yield. However, it’s important to monitor the plant closely and adjust the ties as needed to avoid causing damage. With patience and careful attention, LST can be a highly effective training method for cannabis cultivation.
Advanced LST Techniques
While the basic LST technique involves bending and securing the branches, there are several advanced techniques that can further optimize the plant’s growth:
- Super Cropping: This technique involves gently pinching and bending the branches until they become soft and pliable. This causes the plant to produce a hormone that promotes growth, leading to thicker and stronger branches.
- Screen of Green (SCROG): This method involves placing a screen over the plants and weaving the branches through the screen as they grow. This creates a flat, even canopy that maximizes light exposure.
- Topping: This technique involves cutting off the top of the plant to promote the growth of two main stems instead of one. When combined with LST, this can result in a bushier plant with more bud sites.
Strains that Adapt Better to LST
While LST can be used with any cannabis strain, some strains are particularly well-suited to this method:
- Sativa Strains: These strains tend to have more flexible stems and a more open growth pattern, making them ideal for LST.
- Hybrid Strains: Many hybrid strains combine the best traits of Indica and Sativa strains, making them highly adaptable to various training methods, including LST.
- Bushy Strains: Strains that naturally grow in a bushy shape with lots of branches are ideal for LST, as they have plenty of branches to work with.
- Specific Strain Recommendations for LST
FAQs
What is LST?
LST, or Low-Stress Training, is a method of training cannabis plants to grow in a specific shape to maximize light exposure and increase yield.
How does LST work?
LST works by gently bending and securing the branches of the plant, changing its physical shape and growth pattern. This allows more of the plant to receive light, leading to a larger yield.
When should I start LST?
It’s best to start LST when the plant is still young and its stems are flexible. This makes it easier to bend and shape the plant without causing damage.
Can LST damage my plants?
If done correctly, LST should not damage your plants. However, it’s important to be gentle when bending the branches and to avoid tying the ties too tightly, as this can cause damage.
Summary
LST is a powerful technique for maximizing the yield of your cannabis plants. By understanding the science behind it and learning how to properly implement it, you can significantly increase the productivity of your grow. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced grower, LST offers a low-stress way to improve the health and yield of your plants. Remember, the key to successful LST is patience, careful attention, and regular adjustments. With these in mind, you can harness the power of LST to take your cannabis cultivation to the next level.
