With the development of indoor cultivation technology, more and more growers are choosing to grow cannabis indoors. Not only can indoor cultivation control environmental factors, but it can also improve plant yield and quality through various training techniques. This article will introduce you to some common cannabis plant training techniques to help you optimise the effect of cultivation.
The basic concept of cultivation training
Cultivation training is a technique that uses physical means to alter the growth pattern of plants in order to increase yield, improve plant structure or accelerate growth. Proper training can not only make cannabis plants healthier, but also improve the efficiency of space use.
Main training techniques
In indoor cannabis cultivation, plant training technology is the key to increasing yields and optimising space utilisation. Here are four effective training methods, each with its own unique application scenarios and operating techniques.
1.Low-Stress Training (LST)
First, let's talk about low-stress training, which is a gentle technique. All you need to do is gently bend the main stem down and secure it with a rope or clamp.
What does this do? Simply put, it allows the side branches to reach up to the sky and enjoy more sunshine. Although simple, don't underestimate this method. It can significantly improve the photosynthetic efficiency of plants and make your flowers grow bigger and fuller. Don't you want your plants to produce more spectacular
2. High-Stress Training (HST)
High stress training is not as gentle as LST training techniques. What you have to do is use some 'rough' methods to train your cannabis, such as 'topping' and 'super cropping'.
Does it sound a bit harsh? But the effect will surprise you. Topping is cutting off the main stem at the top of a strain to encourage it to grow more side branches, allowing more flowers to grow under the dense branches and leaves.
For super crops you need to pinch the stem lightly to create small wounds. It sounds cruel, but the plant will become stronger at the wound.
3. Binding
Let's talk about binding again. This is the simplest technique. By simply tying certain parts of the plant with ropes or bands, you can change the direction of growth. What are the benefits? It increases light and air circulation, allowing each part of the plant to grow evenly.
4. Screen of Green (SCROG)
Screen of Green is an advanced plant training technique that uses a mesh screen over the plant's head. This allows the branches of the plant to pass through the mesh evenly and receive the same amount of sunlight. The purpose of SCROG is to maximise yield per square metre so that all flowers receive light at the same height, promoting more uniform maturity and higher overall yield.
FAQ
Q1: When should I start training my cannabis plants?
A1: Cannabis plants should be trained early in the growth period, especially in the first few weeks of the growing season. This is because the plants are smaller and more flexible at this time, making it easier to adjust the shape without causing too much damage.
Q2: Will training cannabis plants hurt them?
A2: Proper training methods should be safe, but it is important to make sure they are done correctly. High-stress training (such as pruning) can cause unnecessary stress and damage to the plant if not done correctly. Always make sure to use clean tools and perform the operation at the right time.
Q3: Is there anything special to pay attention to when using the SCROG method?
A3: When using the SCROG method, make sure the grid is installed at the appropriate height, usually slightly below the top of the plant. As the plant grows, the branches should be adjusted regularly to be evenly distributed under the grid. In addition, it is very critical to maintain good air circulation and proper moisture.
Q4: How long after training the plant can I see the effect?
A4: The effect after training the plant may take several weeks to appear. For example, dwarfing may cause the side branches of the plant to start growing more outward within a few days. For high-stress training, such as topping, it may take several weeks to see new growth points develop.
With proper training techniques, the indoor cultivation effect of cannabis can be significantly improved. Each technique has its own characteristics and applicable situations. Reasonable selection and precise operation are the key to successful cultivation