Marijuana cultivation has become a popular hobby for many individuals, with a growing interest in maximizing yields. To increase yields, growers often turn to various plant training techniques, with Low Stress Training (LST) being one of the most popular.
LST involves bending and securing flexible branches to create multiple bud sites and even out the canopy, resulting in higher yields and more robust plants. This article will explore how to maximize marijuana yields with LST, including the benefits and techniques of LST, the best time to use it, and common mistakes to avoid.
We will also provide guidance on harvesting and drying buds and offer tips on how to choose the right cannabis strain, grow medium, and lighting. Whether you are a new or experienced grower, this article will provide you with the knowledge and skills to enhance your yield and produce high-quality buds.
What is LST?
Low Stress Training (LST) is a technique used by cannabis growers to manipulate the growth of their plants, with the aim of achieving higher yields. This free, gentle, and effective training technique involves bending the branches of the plant and using gardening wire or soft ties to hold them in place.
LST allows for complete control over the height, shape, and size of the plant, and can be used to grow cannabis plants in any size or shape. The main goal of LST is to create multiple bud sites and even out the canopy of the plant.
By using LST, growers can produce many big buds instead of just a single main bud and a lot of tiny ones. This technique also allows for a better distribution of light, as all parts of the plant are located at the proper distance from the grow lights. With LST, growers can keep their plants short and wide to take advantage of grow lights, and reduce the height of marijuana plants that are getting too tall for the setup.
Techniques for LST
Flexible foliage can facilitate effective formation of fruitful flora through the technique of gentle gardening known as Low Stress Training (LST).
LST is a process that involves manipulating cannabis plants to create multiple bud sites and even out the canopy, thereby increasing marijuana yields without changing the setup.
This technique is used to grow cannabis plants of any size or shape and enables complete control over the height, shape, and size of the plant.
To achieve optimal results with LST, growers should start by topping the plant when it is young and bend the flexible branches down to create an even canopy.
This technique can be done using plant twisty ties or soft wire ties, which should be secured to the sides of the container or through holes in the container.
It is essential to be gentle when bending the branches and only bend soft growth.
Moreover, ties should be securely attached to the plant to prevent it from breaking or causing open wounds.
By utilizing LST techniques, growers can produce many big buds instead of just a single main bud and a lot of tiny ones, and it allows a better distribution of light since all parts of the plant are located at the proper distance from the grow lights.
Benefits of LST
Utilizing the technique of gentle gardening known as LST can lead to increased bud sites and an even canopy, resulting in more efficient use of grow lights and higher yield potential.
By bending and tying down the flexible branches of cannabis plants, growers can manipulate their growth and encourage the development of multiple colas, instead of just one or two. This technique allows for a better distribution of light, as all parts of the plant are located at the proper distance from the grow lights.
In addition to increasing yield potential, LST also allows for complete control over the height, shape, and size of the plant. This technique is ideal for growers who want to keep their plants short and wide to take advantage of their grow lights.
By implementing LST, growers can produce many big buds instead of just a single main bud and a lot of tiny ones. Moreover, LST can be used alongside other plant training techniques to get the best results, and it is a free, gentle, and effective training technique for all cannabis plants.
When to Use LST
Optimal timing for the application of the gentle gardening technique that involves manipulating cannabis plants to create multiple bud sites and even out the canopy, is a crucial consideration for growers seeking to enhance their yield potential.
The best time to start LST is during the vegetative stage when the plant is still young and flexible. Waiting until the plant has become too stiff and woody can make it difficult to bend the branches and may even cause breakage. Moreover, early LST ensures that the plant grows wide and bushy, which is ideal for maximizing the yield potential.
It is also important to note that LST should not be used during the flowering stage, except in the first few weeks to control new growth. Once the plant has transformed into a horizontal table and has reached half of its desired height, flowering should be initiated, and LST should be used sparingly if needed.
This is because the plant will focus on developing buds rather than growing new branches. By using LST at the right time, growers can ensure that their plants grow to their maximum potential and produce bigger yields.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One key aspect to consider when implementing the Low Stress Training technique is to avoid common mistakes that can hinder plant growth and yield potential. While LST is a gentle and effective training technique, it is important to be cautious and avoid certain pitfalls.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
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Applying too much pressure: When bending branches, it is important to be gentle and avoid applying too much pressure. If too much force is applied, it can cause damage to the plant’s stems and slow down growth.
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Tying too tightly: While it is important to secure the plant during LST, it is equally important to avoid tying too tightly. This can restrict the plant’s growth and cause damage to the stem.
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Overusing LST: While LST can be an effective technique, it is important to use it in moderation. Overusing LST can cause stress to the plant, slow down growth, and reduce yield potential.
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Starting too late: It is important to start LST early in the plant’s life to avoid having to bend thick stems. If LST is started too late, it can be difficult to achieve the desired shape and yield potential.
By avoiding these common mistakes, growers can maximize the potential of their cannabis plants and achieve higher yields. It is important to be patient and cautious when implementing LST, and to always monitor the plant’s growth and health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can LST be used on autoflowering strains?
Yes, Low Stress Training (LST) can be used on autoflowering strains. It is recommended to skip the cutting part and go straight to LST. LST can help increase yields and create a more even canopy in autoflowering plants.
How long does it take for a plant to recover after being bent during LST?
The recovery time for a plant after being bent during LST varies, but typically only lasts for a day or two. As the plant recovers, growth may slow down temporarily. However, it is important to avoid causing open wounds during the process as they can hinder growth.
Is it possible to use LST on plants that have already reached a tall height?
LST can be used on tall plants, but it’s best to start early on to avoid bending thick, stiff stems. Bent stems will continue to grow upwards if not tied down, and LST should not prevent easy access to tend to the plants.
Can LST be used in combination with other plant training techniques?
Low Stress Training (LST) can be used in combination with other plant training techniques for optimal results in controlling plant height, shaping the plant, and increasing yields. It is a free, gentle, and effective training technique for all cannabis plants.
What are some common tools or materials used for tying down plants during LST?
To secure branches during Low Stress Training (LST), soft wire ties or plant twisty ties are commonly used. It is important to avoid sharp materials and tie down plants in a way that allows for easy access and does not impede growth.
