How to Increase the Potency of Your Cannabis Harvest with HST
Cannabis cultivation can be a challenging yet rewarding pursuit, especially for those seeking high-quality yields with potent effects. While there are many factors that contribute to the growth and development of cannabis plants, utilizing high-stress training (HST) techniques can increase the potency of your harvest. However, many growers may be perplexed by the different types of HST and how to properly apply them. In this article, we will explore what HST is, why it is beneficial, when to use it, and step-by-step instructions on how to perform it. By the end of this article, you will have the knowledge and tools needed to take your cannabis cultivation to the next level.
What is HST?
Contents
Have you ever heard of HST? No, it’s not a new kind of high-speed train, but rather an abbreviation for a cannabis cultivation technique that can increase the potency of your harvest. HST stands for High-Stress Training, which involves subjecting your plants to various forms of stress – such as topping or bending them – to promote more growth and resin production. In this section of the article, we’ll delve deeper into the different methods of HST and how they can benefit your cannabis crop.
Topping
Topping is a popular high stress training (HST) technique that involves removing the top section of the plant’s main stem. This forces the plant to produce two new main shoots instead of one, resulting in two main colas instead of one. Using topping, you can effectively double the amount of buds that you harvest from a single plant.
To ensure the success of topping, you will need to make sure that you have the proper tools, including a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. You will also need to take care to make a clean cut, as a jagged cut may damage the plant and lead to infection.
The Steps for Topping Your Plant are:
| Step 1: | Wait until your plant has at least five sets of leaves. |
| Step 2: | Locate the main stem’s topmost part, just above the fifth set of leaves. |
| Step 3: | Using your sharp scissors or pruning shears, cut the top from the main stem. |
| Step 4: | Clip off any excess growth on the stem below the cut to ensure proper air flow and to save valuable nutrients for the top of the plant. |
| Step 5: | Wait for new growth to appear at the stem’s base. This should happen within a few days, and these new shoots will become your two new main colas. |
Remember that topping can temporarily slow the growth of your plant, but the end result will be worth it. By topping your cannabis plant, you will increase the amount of buds you can harvest from a single plant and also promote thick, bushy growth that will help boost your yield.
LST
One of the HST techniques for increasing the potency of your cannabis harvest is LST, or Low Stress Training. By bending and manipulating the plant’s branches, LST can help distribute nutrients and encourage equal growth throughout the plant, resulting in larger and more potent buds. Here are some step-by-step instructions for performing LST on your cannabis plant:
Tools Needed:
| Soft Ties: | Nylon or Velcro ties that won’t damage the plant’s delicate branches. |
| Supporting Stakes: | Bamboo or plastic stakes that can support the plant as it grows. |
| Scissors: | Clean, sharp scissors for pruning any excess foliage. |
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start LST in the vegetative stage, once the plant has 3-4 nodes.
2. Use a soft tie to gently bend the main stem of the plant parallel to the soil.
3. Secure the bent stem to a supporting stake with another soft tie, so that it maintains a horizontal position.
4. Wait a few days for the plant to adjust to the new position, then gently bend the upper branches downward and away from the center of the plant.
5. Use soft ties to secure these branches to the supporting stake, so that they maintain a horizontal position as well.
6. Repeat this process every few days, as the plant grows and develops new branches.
7. Continue LST until the plant reaches about 75% of its desired height, then stop bending and begin maintaining the plant’s shape by pruning excess foliage.
Tips for Successful LST:
– Be gentle when bending and manipulating the plant’s branches, to avoid damaging or breaking them.
– Use soft ties that won’t damage the plant’s delicate branches, and don’t tie too tightly or too close to the stem.
– Make sure the supporting stakes are sturdy enough to support the weight of the plant as it grows.
– Keep an eye on the plant as it grows, and adjust the LST as necessary to maintain an even canopy and encourage equal growth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
– Bending or manipulating the plant too much or too aggressively, which can cause damage or stress.
– Tying too tightly or too close to the stem, which can restrict the flow of nutrients and water.
– Neglecting to adjust the LST as the plant grows, which can result in uneven growth and an uneven canopy.
By following these steps and tips, you can successfully use LST as an HST technique to increase the potency and yield of your cannabis harvest.
Mainlining
Mainlining, also known as “manifolding,” is another HST technique that involves creating a symmetrical plant structure with multiple main colas. This technique can increase the yield and potency of your cannabis harvest by promoting even light distribution and maximizing space utilization.
To perform mainlining, you will need a young, healthy plant with at least four nodes. Here is a step-by-step guide:
| Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1: | Identify the first node below the plant’s top and remove everything below it, including any lower branches and leaves. This will focus the plant’s energy on the top nodes and promote more growth. |
| Step 2: | Once the plant has grown out its top node, identify the two nodes closest to the plant’s base and remove all other nodes and branches. This will create two main branches, which will eventually become the main colas. |
| Step 3: | As the two main branches grow, top them just above their fourth node, leaving four nodes below the cut. This will continue to promote even growth and create four new branches, two on each main branch. |
| Step 4: | Repeat Step 3 with each of the four branches, creating eight evenly spaced branches in total. |
| Step 5: | Remove any new branches that grow between the main branches to keep the plant symmetrical. |
| Step 6: | Tie down each branch with a soft plant tie to promote even growth and light distribution. |
| Step 7: | Continue to train the plant as it grows, tying down new growth to maintain an even canopy and promote maximum light exposure to all branches. |
Remember, mainlining can be a bit more complex than other HST techniques and requires patience and attention to detail. However, if done correctly, it can result in an abundant and high-quality cannabis harvest.
Why Use HST to Increase Potency?
It’s no secret that cannabis enthusiasts love high potency buds. If you’re aiming for a more potent harvest, you might want to consider using high-stress training (HST) methods such as topping, low-stress training (LST), or mainlining. By subjecting your plants to controlled stress during the growing process, you can increase the cannabinoid and terpene content in your buds. But why exactly does HST lead to a more potent harvest? Let’s delve into the science behind it.
Stress Response
When plants are subjected to stress, they develop unique survival mechanisms. Cannabis plants are no different, and when they are exposed to HST techniques, they undergo a stress response that can ultimately lead to increased potency. The following table explains the different stress responses that cannabis plants exhibit in response to HST and how they contribute to increased potency:
| Stress Response | Explanation | Contribution to Increased Potency |
|---|---|---|
| Increased Trichome Production | Trichomes are the tiny resin glands on the cannabis plant that contain valuable cannabinoids and terpenes. When the plant is subjected to stress, it produces more trichomes as a defense mechanism. | The increased number of trichomes on the plant means a higher concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes, ultimately leading to increased potency. |
| THC Conversion | When exposed to stress, the plant converts THCA (the non-psychoactive form of THC) to delta-9 THC, the psychoactive form of THC that is responsible for the high associated with cannabis consumption. | The conversion of THCA to delta-9 THC ultimately leads to increased potency, as the psychoactive form of THC is more desirable for recreational users. |
| Higher Cannabinoid Production | As a response to stress, the cannabis plant produces higher levels of cannabinoids in an effort to protect itself. | The increased production of cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, leads to a higher concentration of cannabinoids in the plant material, ultimately contributing to increased potency. |
The stress response of cannabis plants to HST techniques is an important factor in increasing potency, as it leads to increased trichome production, THC conversion, and cannabinoid production. As a result, cannabis growers who utilize HST techniques can potentially achieve a more potent cannabis harvest.
Increased Light Exposure
One of the key benefits of using High Stress Training (HST) on your cannabis plants is the potential for increased light exposure. This increased light exposure can lead to a more potent harvest as the plant is able to photosynthesize more efficiently, creating more energy for growth and bud development.
So, how exactly does increased light exposure occur through HST techniques?
First, let’s consider the topping technique. When you top your cannabis plant, you remove the top of the main stem, which causes the two nodes below the cut to grow into two separate stems. This creates a bushier plant with more nodes and more potential bud sites. The increased number of bud sites allows for more light to penetrate deeper into the plant, which can result in more energy and growth.
Similarly, the low-stress training (LST) technique involves bending and tying down the stems of the plant to create a more even canopy. This technique allows for more light to reach lower branches and bud sites, which would have otherwise been overshadowed by taller branches. By training the plant to grow in a more even canopy, you are ensuring that each bud site is receiving the maximum amount of light possible, creating more energy for growth and potency.
Finally, mainlining involves a similar process of creating an even canopy, with eight evenly spaced colas. By training the plant to grow in this way, it ensures that each cola is receiving an equal amount of light, allowing for more energy and growth for each individual cola.
By using HST techniques, you are creating a more efficient use of light within your cannabis plants, which can lead to a more potent and productive harvest.
When to Use HST?
One of the most perplexing aspects of using HST to increase the potency of your cannabis harvest is knowing exactly when to apply these techniques. Determining the right time to use HST requires careful consideration of the growth stage of your plants and the specific outcomes you hope to achieve. In this section, we will explore the ideal growth stages for applying HST techniques and provide guidance on choosing the right method for your needs.
Seedling/Early Veg Stage
During the seedling/early veg stage, HST should be used with caution. This is because the plants are still very fragile and may not respond well to stress. However, if done correctly, HST can greatly increase the potency of the final harvest. Below is a table outlining the potential benefits and risks of using HST during the seedling/early veg stage.
| Benefits of HST in Seedling/Early Veg Stage | Risks of HST in Seedling/Early Veg Stage |
|---|---|
| Can increase yield and potency by creating a more robust and bushy plant | Plants are fragile and may not respond well to stress |
| Can help to shape the plant for better light penetration and more uniform growth | Increased risk of plant damage or death |
| Stress response can trigger greater production of cannabinoids | May stunt growth and delay harvest |
It is important to note that if HST is to be used during this stage of growth, it should only be done once the plant has developed a few sets of leaves and is showing signs of strong growth. The plant should also be in a healthy state and not showing any signs of stress or nutrient deficiencies. It is also important to start with a very gentle form of HST, such as LST, and observe the plant’s response before progressing to more aggressive techniques. With proper care and attention, HST during the seedling/early veg stage can be a valuable tool for increasing the potency of your final harvest.
Late Veg/Early Flowering Stage
During the late veg and early flowering stage, cannabis plants are typically well established with a strong root system and multiple branches. This is the ideal time to begin HST techniques to increase the potency of your harvest.
Benefits of HST during Late Veg/Early Flowering Stage:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Bigger Buds | By manipulating the growth pattern of the plant, you can promote larger, denser buds. |
| Higher Potency | The stress response from HST techniques can increase the production of THC and other cannabinoids. |
| Better Light Penetration | By opening up the canopy, more light can reach lower buds, resulting in more even growth and higher yields |
Which HST to Use:
During the late veg and early flowering stage, topping and LST are the most commonly used HST techniques. Mainlining can also be used at this stage, but may require more time for the plant to recover before beginning the flowering stage.
Topping: This technique involves cutting off the tip of the main stem to promote the growth of multiple colas. It can be done once or multiple times, depending on the size of the plant and desired results. Topping during this stage can lead to larger colas and an even canopy.
LST: Low Stress Training involves using gentle pressure to bend and shape the branches of the plant. This technique can promote an even canopy, better light penetration, and larger colas. It is important to avoid causing any damage to the plant during LST.
How to Do HST:
Regardless of which technique you choose, it is important to have the right tools and follow step-by-step instructions carefully. Here are some tips for successful HST during the late veg/early flowering stage:
Tools Needed:
– Sterilized trimming scissors or pruners
– Soft plant ties (such as garden twine)
– Bamboo stakes or other support structures, if using LST
Step-by-Step Instructions for Topping:
1. Wait until the plant has at least 4-5 nodes (sets of leaves) before topping.
2. Using sterilized scissors or pruners, cut off the tip of the stem above the fourth or fifth node.
3. Wait a few days for the plant to recover before resuming normal feeding and watering.
Step-by-Step Instructions for LST:
1. Identify which branches you want to train – ideally, choose the branches that are growing horizontally or at a slight angle.
2. Gently tie the branch down using soft plant ties, being careful not to break or damage the stem.
3. Secure the plant tie to a nearby support structure (such as a bamboo stake) to hold the branch in place.
4. Repeat with other desired branches.
Tips for Successful HST:
– Only use HST techniques on healthy plants with strong root systems.
– Wait for the plant to recover and resume normal growth before applying additional stress.
– Monitor the plant carefully for signs of stress, such as wilting or yellowing leaves.
– As the plant grows, continue to adjust and modify your HST techniques as necessary to maintain an even canopy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
– Applying too much stress too quickly, which can damage or kill the plant.
– Using dirty or non-sterilized tools, which can introduce harmful bacteria or fungi to the plant.
– Neglecting to monitor the plant for signs of stress or disease.
By using HST techniques during the late veg/early flowering stage, you can promote bigger buds, higher potency, and better light penetration for a more successful cannabis harvest.
Flowering Stage
During the flowering stage, your plants will start to develop buds and you can no longer use topping or LST as they can stress the plant too much and reduce yields. However, mainlining can still be used at this stage to increase potency.
1. Continue training the main colas – During the flowering stage, the main colas of your plant will start to stretch and grow taller. You can use stakes or cages to help support them and train them to grow horizontally.
2. Remove unnecessary growth – As your plant focuses its energy on growing buds, you’ll want to remove any unnecessary growth that won’t lead to the development of dense buds. Look for small, underdeveloped branches or stems that won’t receive enough light and remove them.
3. Monitor nutrient levels – During the flowering stage, your plant will have different nutrient needs than during the vegetative stage. Be sure to monitor and adjust your nutrient levels accordingly. Too much nitrogen at this stage can lead to reduced bud development and potency.
4. Control humidity and temperature – High humidity levels can lead to mold growth on your buds, so it’s important to keep humidity levels under control during the flowering stage. Temperature can also affect the potency of your harvest, so keep an eye on the temperature of your growing environment.
5. Harvest at the right time – The timing of your harvest can greatly affect the potency of your buds. Wait until the trichomes on your buds have turned a milky white color before harvesting for maximum potency.
Determining Which HST Method to Use
Determining which HST method to use is crucial in order to maximize the yield and potency of your cannabis plants. The method you choose will depend on several factors, including the strain of cannabis you are growing, the size and shape of your plants, and your personal preferences. Here are some factors to consider when choosing which HST method to use:
| Factor to Consider | Possible HST Methods to Use |
|---|---|
| Plant size and shape | – Topping: for plants with a single main stem and a tall, thin shape – LST: for plants with several main stems and a bushy shape – Mainlining: for plants with a symmetrical shape and many evenly spaced nodes |
| Strain of cannabis | – Sativa-dominant strains: may require more aggressive HST methods such as topping or mainlining to control growth and maximize yields – Indica-dominant strains: may require less aggressive HST methods such as LST to avoid stunting growth |
| Growth stage | – Seedling/early vegetative stage: topping or mainlining can be used to create more main stems and increase overall plant volume – Late vegetative/early flowering stage: LST can be used to train the plant to spread out and maximize light exposure – Flowering stage: HST should be avoided in order to prevent stress that can reduce yields and potency |
| Personal preferences | – Some growers prefer certain HST methods based on personal experience and success – Experimentation with different methods can lead to a preferred technique and higher yields |
Consider all of these factors carefully when determining which HST method to use on your cannabis plants. Remember, each plant is unique and may respond differently to different HST techniques. It is important to stay observant and adjust as necessary in order to achieve the best results possible.
How to Do HST?
Once you have determined which HST method to use, it’s time to get started with the actual process. Proper execution is key to avoid damaging your plants and to achieve the best results. In this section, we will go through the steps you should take to successfully perform HST, as well as the tools you’ll need to get the job done. Pay close attention to our tips and advice to ensure that your plants remain healthy and strong throughout the process. Let’s dive into the specifics of how to do HST!
Tools Needed
Performing HST on your cannabis plants requires a few essential tools to ensure successful results. Make sure you have the following tools at hand before starting:
- Sharp scissors: You’ll need to make clean cuts when topping your plants or pruning them during LST.
- Cannabis-friendly training wire: Look for flexible, coated wire, which won’t harm your plant’s delicate branches.
- Bamboo sticks or other supports: You’ll need to prop up your plants during LST, so they don’t fall over or damage themselves.
- Plant ties: You’ll need to secure the branches of your plants during LST, so they stay in place, but without damaging them.
- Clean, sharp pruning shears: You’ll need them to precisely prune your plant’s leaves during mainlining.
Having these tools handy will make your HST process go smoother, and help you avoid frustration and suboptimal results. Make sure your tools are clean and sanitized, as well, to avoid any potential contamination of your plants.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Topping
To perform topping, you will need a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. Follow these step-by-step instructions to successfully top your cannabis plants:
| Step 1: | Wait until the plant has at least 4-5 sets of leaves and is in the vegetative stage. |
| Step 2: | Identify the main stem of the plant, which is the center stem that runs from the root system all the way up to the top of the plant. |
| Step 3: | Locate the node where the 4th or 5th set of leaves meets the main stem. This will be the location where you will make the cut. |
| Step 4: | Using your sharp scissors or pruning shears, make a clean and precise cut about ¼ inch above the node. Do not leave too much of a stem or too little – the perfect length is about the size of a thumbnail. |
| Step 5: | After you cut off the top portion of the main stem, two new branches will begin to grow from the node where you made the cut. These branches will grow outwards, creating a “V” shape. |
| Step 6: | Allow the plant to recover from the stress of topping for at least a week before performing any further HST. During this time, the plant will redirect its energy to the remaining branches, resulting in more nodes and increased yield. |
It’s important to keep in mind that topping should only be done during the vegetative stage, and not during the flowering stage. Also, it’s recommended to only top your plant once so as not to cause too much stress. With proper technique, topping can increase the potency and yield of your cannabis harvest.
Step-by-Step Instructions for LST
Low Stress Training (LST) is an HST technique that involves tying down the branches of your cannabis plant to create a more even canopy and increase the light exposure to the lower parts of the plant. Here are some step-by-step instructions for LST:
- Start Early: Begin LST training in the vegetative stage when the plant is still flexible and can be trained to grow in the desired shape.
- Prepare: Gather all necessary tools, including plant ties or soft wire and stakes to hold the ties down.
- Select Branches: Identifying the two or three main branches that you want to train and gently pull the branches down and away from the center of the plant to create an even canopy.
- Secure: Secure the stems to the pot or growing medium with plant ties or soft wire, being careful not to damage the plant.
- Observe: Monitor the plant and make necessary adjustments to the ties as the branches continue to grow and bend towards the light.
- Repeat: Repeat the process for all desired branches until you have achieved the desired shape and even canopy.
- Keep it Low Stress: Remember, the key is to create a low stress environment for the plant. Do not over-tighten the ties, and do not cause any damage or stress to the plant.
By following these step-by-step instructions, you can effectively use LST to increase the potency of your cannabis harvest. Keep in mind that LST can take some time and patience, but the end result will be a healthier and more productive plant.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Mainlining
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Select a young plant with a strong central stem and at least four pairs of leaves. Remove any side branches or growth below the fourth set of leaves. |
| Step 2 | Once you have removed the unwanted growth, use a pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut off the top of the plant, just above the second set of leaves. This will encourage the plant to grow two new stems at the same level. |
| Step 3 | As soon as the two new stems have grown to the same height, cut off the tops of those stems again, just above the second set of leaves. Repeat this process until there are 8 main colas growing at the same level. |
| Step 4 | Once there are 8 main colas growing at the same level, use gardening wire to gently bend each stem down and away from the plant’s center, creating a symmetrical canopy. Be sure not to break any branches or damage the stems. |
| Step 5 | Allow the plant to continue growing under the new canopy for 1-2 weeks, then begin removing any growth from the bottom third of the plant to focus energy on the main colas. |
| Step 6 | Continue to maintain the canopy by gently bending and tying down any new growth that emerges above the canopy, until the plant reaches its desired height. |
| Step 7 | As the plant begins to flower, trim off any excess leaves to allow more light and air to reach the buds. Harvest the plant when the buds have fully matured. |
Mainlining is a technique that can greatly increase the potency and yield of your cannabis harvest. By creating a symmetrical canopy of 8 main colas, you can ensure that each cola receives even light exposure and nutrients, resulting in larger, denser buds. Follow these step-by-step instructions to successfully mainline your cannabis plant. Remember to be patient and gentle throughout the process to avoid any damage to the plant.
Tips for Successful HST
To ensure success with HST, it is important to follow these tips:
- Start Early: It is best to begin HST techniques during seedling or early vegetative stage to allow for ample recovery time before flowering.
- Be Patient: HST techniques can take several weeks to show results, so do not expect overnight changes.
- Handle with Care: When performing HST techniques, handle your plants gently and do not cause unnecessary damage.
- Use Clean Tools: Always use clean tools to prevent the spread of diseases or pests.
- Train Slowly: When using LST, gradually bend the branches over the course of several days to prevent breaking or stressing the plant too much.
- Watch for Signs of Stress: Keep an eye on your plants for any signs of stress, such as wilting or discoloration, and adjust your techniques accordingly.
- Support Branches: After performing LST or topping, use plant ties or stakes to help support the branches and prevent them from breaking under the weight of buds.
- Stay Consistent: If using mainlining, be sure to consistently prune and train your plants to promote even growth and maximize yield.
- Adjust Lighting: After performing HST, adjust your grow lights to ensure that all parts of the plant receive adequate light, and to prevent burning or bleaching.
By following these tips, you can increase the success of your HST techniques and boost the potency of your cannabis harvest.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While using HST to increase the potency of your cannabis harvest may seem like a great idea, it’s important to be aware of common mistakes that can ruin your efforts. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overdoing it: It’s important to remember that HST is a form of stress to your plants. Overdoing it can cause irreversible damage that could negatively impact your yield. It’s crucial to follow the HST techniques in moderation and give your plants time to recover between each one.
- Ignoring the plant: As with any form of plant care, it’s important to pay close attention to your cannabis plants when using HST. Make sure you’re monitoring the plants for stress and adjust your HST techniques accordingly. Not paying attention to your plants or ignoring any issues could lead to stunted growth, nutrient deficiencies, and even death.
- Timing: Timing is essential when it comes to HST. If you wait too long to begin or end HST, it could negatively impact your yield potential. Additionally, timing is important when it comes to allowing your plants to recover between HST techniques. Be patient and take the time to watch your plants for signals of readiness.
- Improper technique: Each HST technique has its own specific rules and guidelines. Not following these guidelines could lead to poor results. Make sure you research and understand the specific technique you’re planning to use before implementing it on your plants.
- Using HST on unhealthy plants: HST is not a cure-all for unhealthy plants. In fact, it could make things worse. Make sure your plants are healthy and free of disease or pests before implementing HST techniques. Otherwise, you could cause additional stress that could lead to an even weaker harvest.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of success when implementing HST techniques on your cannabis plants. Remember to be patient, pay attention to your plants, and use moderation when applying these techniques.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using HST techniques such as topping, LST, and mainlining can have a significant impact on the potency of your cannabis harvest. These techniques can help to enhance the stress response of the plant, which in turn can increase trichome production and cannabinoid levels.
It is important to note that these techniques should be used with care and precision. It is essential to determine which HST method is best for your plant’s growth stage and to have the necessary tools and knowledge to perform the technique correctly.
By incorporating these techniques into your grow process, you can also benefit from increased light exposure and improved yields. These benefits can ultimately lead to a higher quality cannabis product that can be enjoyed by both recreational and medical users alike.
Remember, successful HST requires patience, practice, and attention to detail. Avoid common mistakes such as over-stressing the plant or using the wrong technique at the wrong time. With the right tools and a willingness to learn, you can use HST to take your cannabis harvest to the next level.
Overall, HST is a valuable tool for any cannabis grower looking to increase potency and yield. By mastering these techniques and incorporating them into your grow process, you can produce high-quality cannabis that satisfies your needs and exceeds your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using HST on cannabis plants?
Using HST can increase the potency of your cannabis harvest, as well as improve the overall health and yield of your plants.
What is the best stage of growth to utilize HST?
The best stage to utilize HST on cannabis plants is during the vegetative stage, but it can also be used during the flowering stage with caution.
What is topping and how is it done?
Topping is the process of cutting off the top of the plant’s main stem, which encourages more lateral growth. This is done by cutting the stem just above the set of leaves below the top of the plant.
What is LST and how does it work?
LST, or low-stress training, is a method of bending and tying down the branches of a cannabis plant to encourage horizontal growth and increase light exposure to more parts of the plant.
What is mainlining and how is it done?
Mainlining is a method of training cannabis plants to grow with a single main stem and symmetrical branches. This is done by topping the plant and then tying down the new lateral growth until there are an equal number of branches on each side of the plant.
What are the benefits of stress response in cannabis plants?
When cannabis plants experience stress, they produce more resin, which is where THC and other cannabinoids are stored. This can result in a more potent harvest.
What tools are needed to perform HST?
You will need sharp scissors or pruning shears, plant ties or wire, and optionally, a trellis or netting for LST and mainlining.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when using HST?
Common mistakes include performing too much stress too quickly, over-pruning, or breaking the main stem while topping or bending the plant.
Can HST be used on autoflowering cannabis plants?
Using HST on autoflowering cannabis plants can be risky, as they have a limited vegetative stage and any stress can significantly impact their growth and yield.
What should be considered when determining which HST method to use?
Factors to consider include the strain of cannabis, the stage of growth, the size and age of the plant, and the available space for the plant to grow.
