LST vs. HST: Which Training Technique is Right for You?
Growing cannabis can be a challenging task, and one of the most crucial aspects of the process is determining the best training technique for your plants. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to use. Two of the most popular techniques are LST and HST, but what exactly do these terms mean? How can you implement them in your growing strategy? And which technique is best for you and your plants? Let’s explore the intricacies of LST and HST to help you make an informed decision.
LST: Low-Stress Training
Contents
For those looking to maximize their cannabis yield, training techniques offer an effective way to optimize growth and potency. One such technique, known as Low-Stress Training (LST), is designed to manipulate plant growth in a way that encourages higher yields. Although the name may suggest limited intensity, LST can be just as effective as more aggressive techniques when utilized properly. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at what LST is, how it’s done, and its benefits and caveats.
What is LST?
Low-Stress Training (LST) is a training technique that involves manipulating the plant’s growth to increase its yield without causing stress or damage to the plant. LST is a method of bending and securing stems, causing them to grow horizontally instead of vertically, which helps them to receive more light and grow evenly.
LST works by spreading the canopy of the plant out horizontally, allowing more light to penetrate the lower branches, which would otherwise be shaded. When the lower branches receive more light, they start to develop more and grow upwards, giving the plant a bushier appearance. This horizontal growth also helps to distribute nutrients more evenly throughout the plant, resulting in a more uniform growth pattern.
To implement LST, a grower can use a variety of techniques, such as bending stems using soft tie materials, using weights or clips, or manipulating the plants during vegetative growth. The technique can be done on a variety of plants, but is commonly used on cannabis plants.
LST is a popular training technique among growers because it does not cause damage or stress to the plant, allowing the plant to continue to grow and develop without interruption. Additionally, LST can help growers to achieve higher yields, as the technique encourages the plant to produce more buds and flowers spread over a larger surface area.
LST is a low-stress, effective training technique that can be used by growers of all levels to increase their yields and produce healthier, bushier plants.
How To Do LST?
Low-Stress Training (LST) is a cannabis training technique that involves gently bending and tying down the plant’s branches to encourage horizontal growth. LST is a popular training technique among cannabis cultivators because it does not cause any stress on the plant, it can maximize yields without the risk of damaging the plant, and it allows for greater light penetration into the lower branches of the plant.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do LST:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wait until the plant has grown 2-3 nodes |
| 2 | Identify the top of the plant, where the newest growth is occurring |
| 3 | Gently bend the top of the plant down and away from the center of the plant, taking care not to snap any branches |
| 4 | Use a string or twist tie to secure the bent branch to the side of the pot or to a stake driven into the soil |
| 5 | Repeat this process with the other top branches until they are all bent and secured |
| 6 | Wait a few days for the plant to recover and for the lower branches to start growing upward toward the light |
| 7 | When the lower branches grow to the same height as the bent branches, repeat the process by bending and securing them to encourage even growth across the plant |
| 8 | Continue the LST process until the plant reaches the desired shape and size |
It is important to note that LST should be done gradually and gently to avoid stressing the plant. It is also important to use soft materials for tying down the branches to prevent damage. LST is a great training technique for growers who want to maximize yields without damaging the plant.
Benefits of LST
Low-Stress Training (LST) is a technique that has several benefits:
Increased yields: By training the plant to grow horizontally, the canopy becomes even, exposing all of the growth sites to light. This leads to higher yields as each part of the plant receives equal amounts of light.
Better airflow: LST opens up the plant, improving airflow and reducing the likelihood of mold or other pests.
Reduced risk of damage and stress: By gradually bending and training the plant, LST avoids sudden stress or damage that could impact growth or yield.
Accessibility: The horizontal growth pattern achieved through LST makes it easier to care for and harvest your plants.
Caveats of LST
While LST has its benefits, there are also some caveats to consider before using this training technique. Here is a brief overview of the drawbacks of LST:
| Caveats of LST | |
| Slow Growth | Since LST encourages the plant to grow horizontally, it may take longer for it to reach its full potential height. This can be discouraging for growers who are more interested in quick results. |
| Time-Consuming | LST requires constant attention and monitoring. You need to train your plants frequently, and you need to make sure that they are growing in the direction you want them to go. This can be time-consuming, especially if you have a large grow space. |
| Requires Knowledge and Skill | While LST is not an extremely difficult technique, it does require some knowledge and skill to perform correctly. If you don’t have any experience with LST, you may not know how to train your plants effectively, and this can lead to suboptimal results. |
| Can Be Stressful for the Plant | While LST is generally considered a low-stress technique, it can still be stressful for the plant. If you bend the branches too aggressively or too frequently, you can damage the plant and inhibit its growth. It’s important to be gentle and patient when training your plants using LST. |
It’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of LST before deciding whether or not to use this training technique. If you have the time, knowledge, and patience to perform LST correctly, it can be an effective way to increase yields and improve the quality of your plants. However, if you’re looking for a quicker and easier way to train your plants, you might want to consider using a different technique.
HST: High-Stress Training
When it comes to maximizing muscle growth and building strength, many people turn to high-intensity training techniques. One such technique is High-Stress Training (HST). This challenging method involves placing significant stress on the muscles to induce hypertrophy and promote adaptation. HST can be an effective way to see significant results, but it’s not without its challenges and risks. In this section, we’ll delve deeper into what HST entails, how to do it, and the pros and cons you should consider before incorporating it into your fitness routine.
What is HST?
High-Stress Training (HST) is a training technique that involves subjecting your plants to high levels of stress in order to promote growth. This is done by inducing a state of shock in the plant, which triggers it to produce more branches and leaves, in an effort to make it more resilient to future stressors.
One of the most common forms of HST is topping or cutting your plant down to just a few leaves or nodes. This causes the plant to produce new branches and leaves at an accelerated rate as it tries to compensate for the lost foliage. Another form of HST is known as super cropping, which is the process of physically damaging the stems of your plants in a controlled manner, so that they grow wider and with more branches.
HST is generally considered to be more aggressive than LST, as it involves cutting or damaging your plants in some way. However, when done correctly, it can lead to larger yields and more potent buds. It is important to note, however, that HST should only be done on healthy, strong plants that can withstand the stress. Table below summarizes the key points of HST.
| Technique | Objective | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Topping | Encourages lateral branching and bigger buds | Increases yield, easier to control height | Can negatively affect plant growth if done incorrectly |
| Super Cropping | Increases stem thickness, encourages lateral branching | More efficient use of space and light, less likely to break branches | Can cause damage to the plant if done incorrectly |
HST can be a great way to achieve a larger yield and more potent buds, but it requires careful planning and execution. If you are new to growing cannabis, it is generally recommended that you start with LST before moving on to more aggressive techniques like HST.
How To Do HST?
To properly perform HST, it is important to follow a step-by-step process. Here is a table summarizing the key steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Select Your Exercises: |
| Choose multi-joint exercises such as squats, deadlifts, bench press, shoulder press, etc. that target large muscle groups and provide a full-body workout. | |
| Step 2 | Determine Your Rep Range: |
| Decide on the rep range based on your goals. For strength, use a rep range of 1-5 reps per set. For hypertrophy, use a rep range of 6-12 reps per set. | |
| Step 3 | Calculate Your Max: |
| Use a one-rep max calculator or test your max to determine your starting weight for each exercise. | |
| Step 4 | Plan Your Sets and Reps: |
| Divide your max weight by the number of weeks you plan to train. Start with high reps and decrease reps as the weight increases each week. | |
| Step 5 | Start with Low Weight: |
| Start with a weight that is 60-70% of your calculated max for the first week and gradually increase each week as per your plan. |
Following this process will help you properly execute the HST technique and achieve your desired results. However, it is important to consult with a trainer or medical professional before starting any new workout program to ensure it is right for you.
Benefits of HST
One of the primary benefits of High-Stress Training (HST) is that it can lead to significant muscle growth. By subjecting the muscles to intense stress, they are forced to adapt and become stronger, which can result in increased size and definition.
Another benefit of HST is that it can increase strength. By challenging the muscles with heavy weights and pushing them to their limits, the body responds by producing more muscle fibers and creating stronger connections between the nerves and muscles. This can translate to improved performance and the ability to lift heavier weights.
HST can also help to break through plateaus and stimulate muscle growth in stubborn areas. When traditional training methods start to lose effectiveness, HST can provide the shock that the muscles need to continue growing. By targeting specific muscle groups with high-intensity exercises, HST can help to stimulate growth and create a more balanced physique.
Another potential benefit of HST is that it can improve overall athletic performance. By creating stronger muscles and increasing muscular endurance, HST can lead to better performances in sports or other physical activities.
Finally, HST can be a great way to challenge oneself and push past mental barriers. By pushing oneself to the limit and overcoming the discomfort and fatigue that come with HST, individuals can develop a sense of mental toughness and resilience that can carry over into other areas of life.
Caveats of HST
While HST can be an effective method for some growers, it’s important to consider its caveats before engaging in this high-stress training technique.
1. Risk of Injury: HST can be physically demanding and potentially harmful to plants. Over-straining or breaking branches is a common risk when applying high levels of stress.
2. Increased Chance of Infection: Wounds from pruning or training can serve as entry points for harmful pathogens, potentially leading to plant diseases.
3. Longer Recovery Time: HST involves a severe amount of stress on plants, which can lead to a longer recovery time compared to LST. This can hinder the growth of the plant and delay the overall yield.
4. Greater Complexity: HST can be more complex and difficult to execute properly, particularly for novice growers. From understanding the best location to pinch or apply stress to plants, to creating a balance between growth and stress, there’s a lot to keep in mind.
It’s important to keep in mind that HST is not the ideal training technique for everyone. While it can yield impressive results with careful execution, the risks associated with it should not be overlooked. If you’re interested in experimenting with HST, it’s recommended to start small and gradually increase the intensity over time.
LST vs. HST
As a cannabis grower, choosing the right training technique is crucial for maximizing your yield potential. Two common methods are LST (Low-Stress Training) and HST (High-Stress Training). Each technique has its pros and cons, and deciding which one to use can be perplexing. In this section, we will compare and contrast the two methods to help you make an informed decision about which training technique is right for you.
Comparison of LST and HST
When it comes to comparing LST and HST, there are several factors to consider. Here is a list to help weigh the pros and cons of each method:
- Difficulty: LST is considered an easier training technique compared to HST. LST does not require as much experience or technical knowledge as HST. However, HST requires more attention to detail and a higher skill level.
- Time: LST takes less time than HST as it involves less cutting and trimming. However, HST requires more time for maintenance as it involves more cuts and trimming.
- Yield: HST has the potential to produce a higher yield compared to LST. This is because HST stimulates more vigorous growth in the plant.
- Stress: As the name suggests, HST puts more stress on the plant compared to LST. HST involves making significant cuts and changes to the plant’s structure. LST, on the other hand, involves gently bending and securing the branches.
- Adaptability: LST can be used on almost any plant, while HST is not suitable for every type of plant. Some plants may not respond well to the stress of HST and may suffer negative consequences.
- Experience: As mentioned earlier, HST requires more experience and technical knowledge to execute properly. LST, on the other hand, is more forgiving and easier for beginners to learn.
It is important to note that both LST and HST have their own advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the choice between the two techniques depends on the individual’s skill level, time availability, and the specific needs of the plant being trained.
Which Training Technique is Right for You?
Now that we have discussed the benefits and drawbacks of LST and HST, it’s time to determine which one is the right fit for you. This decision can depend on various factors, such as your level of experience, the strain you are growing, your available resources, and personal preferences.
Here is a table comparing LST and HST, their benefits, and drawbacks to help you make an informed decision:
| Factors | LST | HST |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy and beginner-friendly | Challenging and requires experience |
| Results | Less yield but increased bud quality and potency | Higher yield but slightly lower bud quality and potency |
| Time Commitment | Requires constant monitoring and adjustments | Minimal time commitment |
| Resources | Requires fewer resources and space | Requires additional equipment and more significant space |
| Strains | Works well with most strains, including Sativa-dominant strains | Works best with Indica-dominant strains |
| Personal Preference | For those who prefer a hands-on approach to their plant | For those who prefer a more hands-off approach |
Ultimately, the decision between LST and HST comes down to personal preferences and the factors mentioned above. If you are a beginner in growing cannabis, LST might be a better option due to its ease of use and beginner-friendliness. However, if you have a significant amount of experience in growing cannabis and prefer a high-yield plant, HST might be better suited for you.
Regardless of the technique you choose, remember that proper research, planning, and execution are essential for a successful harvest.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between LST and HST, it is important to consider your personal goals and preferences. LST offers a low-stress training technique that is ideal for beginners, as well as those looking to preserve the natural shape and size of their plants. However, it may take a longer time to achieve significant yields and may require more maintenance throughout the plant’s life cycle.
On the other hand, HST offers a high-stress training technique that can produce larger yields in a shorter amount of time. However, it requires more expertise and attention to detail to avoid damaging the plant.
Ultimately, the decision between LST and HST comes down to personal preference, experience level, and the specific needs of your plants. If you’re new to growing cannabis or simply prefer a more hands-off approach, LST is a great place to start. For more experienced growers who are comfortable with the additional challenges and risks involved, HST can be a productive and rewarding method.
Regardless of which technique you choose, remember to always prioritize the health and well-being of your plants. With patience, expertise, and care, you can cultivate thriving cannabis plants using either LST or HST.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between LST and HST?
LST is a low-stress training technique that involves gently bending and tying plant stems. HST is a high-stress training technique that involves intentionally damaging the plant to promote growth.
Is one technique better than the other?
It depends on your goals and personal preference. LST is great for increasing yields, while HST is better for promoting overall plant growth.
What are some benefits of LST?
LST can increase yields, improve light penetration, and create a more even canopy.
What are some drawbacks of LST?
LST can be time-consuming, and it requires frequent adjustment to prevent the plant from growing in the wrong direction.
What are some benefits of HST?
HST can promote overall plant growth, increase potency, and even out the canopy.
What are some drawbacks of HST?
HST can be risky, as it involves intentionally damaging the plant. It also requires a longer recovery time for the plant.
Is it possible to combine LST and HST techniques?
Yes, many growers use a combination of both techniques to achieve their desired results.
What type of plants are best suited for LST?
LST is ideal for plants with flexible stems, such as cannabis.
What type of plants are best suited for HST?
HST can be used on a variety of plants, but it is most commonly used on cannabis.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when using LST or HST?
Some common mistakes include over-stressing the plant, not adjusting the training frequently enough, and not allowing enough recovery time for the plant.
