LST (Low Stress Training) pruning: What does this technique consist of?

Under stress pruning, commonly known as LST (Low Stress Training), is a training technique for cannabis plants that seeks to improve their development without subjecting them to a high level of stress. This method allows to shape the growth of plants, obtaining better results in the distribution of light, the production of buds and the quality of the final harvest. Through this technique, it is possible to maximize performance without seriously damaging the structure of the plant, making it ideal for both rookie and expert growers.

If you are a grower interested in optimizing your harvest and improving your gardening skills, pruning LST could become your best ally. Accompany us on this trip through the foundations and secrets of this innovative and effective pruning technique, because from Grow Industry, Grow online store Trust, we tell you everything you should know about it.

What is LST pruning?

Poda LST, which means "Low Stress Training" in English (low stress training in Spanish), is a pruning technique used in the crop that focuses on training and soft manipulation of plants to achieve optimal growth and efficient distribution of light. Unlike the others pruning techniques That they can be more aggressive, such as apical pruning, which imply the elimination of parts of the plant, the LST is based on flexion and tied branches to redirect their growth in a controlled way.

The fundamental principle behind the LST pruning technique is based on phototropy, which is the response of plants to light. Plants have a natural tendency to guide their branches towards the light source to maximize the collection of light energy. When the branches carefully bend and place them in a horizontal or lower position, the growth of new outbreaks and lateral branches can be stimulated. This results in a more dense and wide plant, instead of high and slender, which improves the absorption of light in all parts of the plant.

The LST pruning process implies the use of wires, strings or other soft clamping devices to fold the branches of the plant so that they are parallel to the substrate or the cultivation surface. As the plant grows, these bent branches will be filled with buds, which will significantly increase the total production of flowers.

Why pruning under stress (LST) in cannabis plants?

Improvement in the distribution of light

One of the greatest benefits of Poda lst It is its ability to improve the distribution of light throughout the entire plant. By folding and training the branches horizontally, the plant acquires a wider and lower shape, allowing light to penetrate more uniformly into all parts. This prevents some branches from being in the shadow, as usually happens in vertical growth plants, and ensures that lower leaves and branches receive sufficient light to make a Optimal photosynthesis. With a more equitable distributed light, the plant can grow more balanced and maximize its development potential.

In addition, uniform exposure to light increases the energy efficiency of the plant, which directly affects the general health and the vigor of its branches. The areas that were previously in the shadow can now actively contribute to growth, which translates into a greater number of sites for the production of buds and an increase in the quality of the final harvest.

Increase in buds production

The Poda lst It also promotes the creation of multiple flowering sites instead of depending on a single dominant apical outbreak. This means that each bent branch becomes a potential site for the formation of flowers, allowing the plant to produce a greater amount of buds. Unlike other techniques, where production focuses on one or two main buds, with the LST you get a more uniform plant and with a greater number of Medium size buds distributed throughout its structure.

This increase in flowering sites is especially beneficial for those who seek Maximize the amount of buds In your crops. Having more production points, the final harvest becomes more abundant and allows a more uniform distribution of plant resources. This low stress technique is, therefore, an excellent option for growers who want to maximize performance without compromising plant health.

Increase in harvest quality

By stimulating the development of smaller multiple cogollos instead of concentrating on one or two large, Poda lst It tends to improve the general quality of the harvest. These smaller buds, being more exposed and receiving a uniform distribution of nutrients and light, are usually dense and contain a greater amount of trichomes, which are responsible for the Power and aroma in . This technique, therefore, helps improve both cannabinoid content and the terpenos profile.

The result is a higher quality harvest, where each cogollo has prominent characteristics and a higher level of Power and flavor. Cultivators who seek to optimize the quality of the final product find in the LST an ideal technique, since it allows to obtain well -formed buds, with a greater concentration of resin and intense aromas.

Reduction of competition between branches

In plants that are not pruned, it is common for branches to compete with each other for reaching light, which can lead to unequal growth and lower production in the lower branches. The Poda lst It allows to minimize this competition, by ensuring that all branches receive light equitably and, therefore, have better conditions to develop fully. By eliminating this competition, each branch grows with the same strength and opportunity, producing buttocks more effectively and homogeneously.

This technique not only allows a greater efficiency in the use of resources, but also facilitates the maintenance of the plant. Having a more balanced growth, it is easier to observe and control the development of the branches, which contributes to more efficient management and, finally, to a higher quality harvest.

What do you need to apply under stress pruning techniques (Low Stress Training)?

To carry out an effective LST pruning, it is important to have certain tools and materials that facilitate the process and ensure good results. First, it is essential to have Precise and clean pruning scissors that allow the initial cuts with precision, avoiding damaging the fibers of the plant. Scissors must be disinfected to avoid the risk of infections or diseases in the plant.

Another essential element is The tape for smooth plants or wires, which will be used to keep the branches in the desired position. This material must be resistant enough to support the weight of the branches, but also soft to avoid strangling them or damaging them. In addition, the use of Support stakes, especially if the plant is in an advanced growth phase and its branches are heavier.

Proper preparation of the environment is also key to the success of the LST. It is important to ensure that the plant receives adequate and uniform lighting in all its structure to maximize the benefits of the technique. Likewise, the environment must be free of additional stress, with a constant supply of nutrients and an optimal level of humidity and temperature. With these elements, it is possible to guarantee an ideal environment for the plant to respond positively to training.

Finally, have a Stable and clean work surface It facilitates the process. Working in an organized place allows you to maintain the concentration and perform each step with precision, minimizing errors and ensuring that each part of the plant is submitted to the LST process correctly and effectively.

When to apply the LST in the plant's life cycle?

The ideal time to apply the LST In cannabis plants it is during the early stages of growth, when the stems and branches are flexible and more receptive to manipulation. In general, the technique can start from the third or fourth week of the plant, when it already has several branches and begins to develop vertically. At this age, the plant is still in a vigorous growth phase and is more resistant to manipulation.

It is advisable to continue with the LST throughout the vegetative stage, since it is in this period when the plant focuses on developing its structure and producing strong branches. However, once the flowering phase begins, manipulation should be reduced, since the approach of the plant changes towards the production of flowers and is more vulnerable to stress.

Step by step guide to execute the pruning LST

Next, a step -by -step guide is presented on how to perform this technique effectively:

Step 1: Select the branches to train

The first step in the LST (Low Stress Training) technique is to identify the branches you want to train. This step is crucial to make sure the plant grows in the desired way and that the branches are exposed efficiently to light.

• Look at your plant: Initially, observe your plant and evaluate its structure. Find branches that are developing vertically up and that are competing for the light with other branches. These are the ideal branches for LST training.
• Select flexible branches: It is important to choose branches that are flexible and not too rigid. Flexible branches are easier to bend without breaking. If a branch is too rigid, you may not respond well to LST training.
• Prioritize upper branches: In general, it is recommended to select the upper branches of the plant, since they tend to receive less light due to their position. By training these branches to the sides, a more uniform light distribution can be achieved throughout the plant.
• Plan the distribution: Visualize how you want the branches to grow and how light will be distributed between them. This will help you make informed decisions about which branches train and in which direction bend them.

Remember that pruning LST is a technique that is done gradually over time. It is not necessary to train all the branches at once. With patience and attention to the selection of the appropriate branches, you will be ready to move on to the next step of the LST process.

Step 2: Gather the tools

Before starting with branches, it is essential to have all the necessary tools gathered and lists. This will facilitate the process and ensure that you can make the necessary adjustments efficiently. The tools and materials you will need include:

• Pruning scissors: They must be sharp and clean to make precise cuts when necessary during training.
• Soft strings or wires: They are used to tie the branches and guide their growth. Make sure they are soft and do not damage the branches.
• Tutors or supports: They may be necessary to keep the branches in the desired position after bending them. Be sure to have enough tutors by hand if you need them.
• Gardening gloves: The gloves will protect your hands during the process and also help maintain adequate hygiene.
• Tags or markers: It is useful to label the branches that you have trained and record the date you made the process. This will help you monitor the progress of each branch.
• Magnifying glass or increase lenses: In some cases, a magnifying glass or increased lenses can be useful for precise cuts and adjustments.
• Disinfectant for tools: Before and after making cuts in the branches, it is important to disinfect your pruning scissors to avoid the spread of diseases or infections.
• Water container: You may need a water container to moisten the strings or wires before binding the branches.
• Paper and pen: To take notes and record the changes you make in each branch.

Once you have gathered all these tools and materials, you will be prepared to proceed with the branch training process using the LST pruning technique effectively.

Step 3: Fold carefully

Once you have selected the branches you want to train and have gathered all the necessary tools, it is time to start the process of folding the branches carefully. The main objective of this step is to guide the growth of the branches horizontally or in the desired direction without causing excessive damage or stress to the plant. Follow these steps to fold the branches carefully:

• Flexion points identification: Look at the plant and locate the points in the branches that are flexible enough to bend without breaking. These points are usually close to knots where the branches bind to the main stem.
• Branch: Carefully hold the selected branch near the flexion point with one hand while holding the main stem with the other hand to avoid exerting additional pressure on the stem.
• Gradual bent: It begins to gently bend the branch in the desired direction. The bending must be gradual and slow to prevent it from breaking or suffering excessive stress. As you bend the branch, you can wear soft strings or wires to tie it in its new position.
• Gradual adjustments: Observe how the branch reacts to bending and make additional adjustments if necessary. The goal is for the branch to maintain its new position naturally.
• Avoid damage: Pay attention to make sure that the branches are not broken or damaged during the bent process. If you notice that a branch is stress too much or runs the risk of breaking, it is better to stop the process in that specific branch.
• Labeling and registration: Label the branch you have folded and record the date you made the process. This will help you keep a record of the branches that you have trained and its progress.

Remember that the key of pruning LST is to apply low and controlled stress to the branches to guide its growth efficiently. This step is essential to achieve a uniform distribution of light and maximize the production of buds in the plant.

Step 4: Set the branches

Once you have carefully bent the branches in the desired direction, the next step is to make sure they maintain their new position. This is achieved by fixing the branches softly but safely to prevent them from straightening or moving. Follow these steps to fix the branches effectively:

• Preparation of fasteners: Before starting, make sure you have soft and flexible fasteners, such as gardening ropes or plastic -coated wires. These fasteners must be soft enough not to damage the branches or cut the nutrient flow.
• Careful support: Start by gently holding the branch near the point where you folded it. Avoid squeezing too much so as not to damage the branch or restrict its growth.
• Safe fixation: Use the fasteners to fix the branch in their new position. You can gently tie the branch around the main stem or to another part of the plant to keep it in place. Make sure the branch is firmly held but not too tight.
• Uniform spacing: Distribute the branches trained evenly around the plant to ensure uniform exposure to light in all areas. This will help all parts of the plant receive the same amount of light and maximize the production of buds.
• Continuous review: As the plant grows, it is important to regularly check the trained branches and adjust the fasteners if necessary. As the branches are strengthened, you may need to loosen the fasteners to allow proper growth.
• Labeling and registration: Label the trained branches and keep a record of the date you made. This will help you monitor the progress and effectiveness of the LST pruning in your plant.

The proper fixation of the branches is essential to maintain the desired shape of the plant and guarantee optimal exposure to light. This step contributes significantly to improving the production of buds and maximizing the benefits of the LST pruning technique.

 Step 5: Observe and adjust

After having set the branches in the desired position, it is important to keep up close of how they are responding and growing. Constant observation will allow you to make adjustments to optimize training and guarantee uniform exposure to light. Follow these steps to observe and adjust the trained branches:

• Observation frequency: Ded time every day or every few days to observe the trained branches and their growth. It is essential to maintain constant monitoring during the training period.
• Growth evaluation: Observe if the branches are growing in the desired direction and if they are moving away from the most shaded areas of the plant. Look for signs of branches that may need more training.
• Soft adjustments: If you notice that any branch is straightening or not receiving enough light, making soft adjustments. This may include again a branch slightly or change the position of the fasteners.
• Avoid stress: Although the technique is called "Low Stress Training", it is important to avoid causing unnecessary stress to the plant. Make adjustments gently and gradual to avoid damaging the branches.
• Registration of changes: Keep a record of the settings you make and the dates on which you do them. This will help you monitor the effectiveness of training and learn what works best for your plant.
• The observation continues: Observation and adjustments must continue throughout the entire flowering period of the plant. As the plant grows and develops new outbreaks, you may need to continue training the branches to maintain a uniform exposure to light.

Constant observation and soft adjustments are fundamental for the success of the LST pruning technique. This guarantees that the branches are maintained in the optimal position to receive light and maximize the production of buds without causing unnecessary stress to the plant.

Step 6: Continue training

LST training is a continuous process throughout the plant's life cycle. As the plant grows and develops new outbreaks, it is essential to continue training to ensure that all branches have adequate exposure to light and that the production of buds is optimal. Follow these steps to continue LST training effectively:

• Regular monitoring: Keep a close monitoring of the growth of the plant and how the trained branches respond. Dedicate time regularly to observe any change in the orientation of the branches.
• Gradual adjustments: As the plant grows, some branches are likely to need adjustments to keep them in the desired position. Make these adjustments gently and gradual to avoid damaging the plant.
• New training: As new outbreaks and side branches develop, consider training them using the same LST technique. This guarantees that all parts of the plant have access to light and develop high quality buds.
• Keep uniformity: The objective is to maintain a uniform exposure to light in all parts of the plant. As you continue training, make sure there are no shaded areas that can affect the production of buds.
• Settings record: Keep a record of the settings you make and the dates on which you do them. This will help you monitor the effectiveness of training and learn what works best for your plant.
• Stress control: Although it is called "Low Stress Training", it is important to avoid causing unnecessary stress to the plant. Make adjustments gently and keep the general health of the plant.

LST training should be a continuous process throughout the plant's life cycle. This approach allows maximizing the production of buds and guaranteeing uniform exposure to light, resulting in a higher quality harvest. Continuing LST training requires constant patience and attention to the plant.

Step 7: Patience and Monitoring

Patience is fundamental in the LST training process, since the results may not be immediately evident, but become more evident over time. This step implies maintaining a constant monitoring of the plant and observing how it responds as it adapts to training. Here are some key guidelines for the step of patience and monitoring:

• Continuous observation: Continue to observe the plant as it grows and develops new outbreaks. Pay attention to the way in which the trained branches are oriented towards the light and how the buds are distributed.
• PROGRESS REGISTRATION: It keeps a record of changes in the plant over time. This may include periodic photographs to document their development. Registration will help you evaluate the effectiveness of training.
• Gradual adjustments: If necessary, make gradual adjustments in the orientation of the branches. This may involve lifting or lower branches to make sure they all have access to light.
• Stress resistance: Make sure the plant is healthy and is not experiencing excessive stress. LST training is called "Low Stress Training" because it must minimize stress for the plant.
• Production monitoring: Look at the production of buds and how they develop in the trained branches. You should see an increase in the production and quality of the buds as the training takes effect.
• Patience: Remember that LST training is a gradual process and can take time before the results are evident. Patience is key to allowing the plant to adapt to training and maximize its performance.

The step of patience and monitoring in LST training is essential for long -term success. By carefully observing the plant and making adjustments as necessary, you can make sure you are optimized to produce high quality buds. The reward for your patience will be an abundant and excellence harvest.

Is LST pruning in Indoor plantations effective?

The Poda lst It is highly effective in Indoor plantations due to space limitations and the need to maximize the use of available light. In a closed environment, where light only comes from a specific source, the LST allows you to distribute this light uniformly, promoting balanced and efficient growth. In addition, it helps optimize space horizontally, causing each plant to develop multiple productive branches without competing for vertical light.

How to handle damaged branches during training

During the process of LST, it may happen that some branch breaks or shows signals of excessive stress. In these cases, it is essential to act quickly. The first thing is to use adhesive tape or soft wire to stabilize the branch and allow it to recover. In addition, it is advisable to apply healing products to protect the wound and reduce the risk of infections. Over time, and appropriate care, damaged branches can recover without affecting growth.

Safety precautions in pruning LST (Low Stress Training)

Performing the LST (Low Stress Training) is a safe practice, but it is important to follow some precautions to guarantee the safety of the plant and the cultivator. Here are some key precautions that you must take into account:

• Handwashing: Before touching the plant, be sure to wash your hands well. This will help prevent dirt transfer, oils and germs to the plant.
• Sharp tools: Use sharp and clean pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant. Clean cuts minimize stress in the plant and reduce the risk of infections.
• Disinfection of tools: Disinfect your tools before and after each use. This prevents the spread of diseases and pathogens from one plant to another.
• Softness in movements: When folding the branches, be sure to do it smoothly and carefully. Avoid applying excessive pressure that can damage the branches.
• Do not force: Do not force the branches in a position. They must be folded naturally and without excessive effort.
• Stress control: Monitor the plant to make sure you are not experiencing excessive stress as a result of training. If you notice signs of severe stress, consider relieving tension in the branches.
• Respect for the life cycle: Make the LST pruning at the right time according to the plant's life cycle. Forcing training in inappropriate stages can damage the plant.
• Continuous observation: After training, keep a continuous observation of the plant to make sure it is adapting in a healthy way.
• Area cleaning: Keep the culture area clean and organized. Avoid obstacles that can damage the plant or interfere with training.
• Hand and hands protection: In some cases, it may be advisable to wear protective glasses and gloves when you perform LST pruning, especially if you work with large plants and strong branches.

Following these safety precautions, you can perform LST pruning effectively and protect both the health of the plant and your own. Remember that pruning LST is a low stress technique that benefits the plant and maximizes the production of buds, provided that it is carried out with adequate care and attention.

Post-Poda care in the LST technique (Low Stress Training)

Once you have applied the Low Stress Training (LST) technique to your plants, it is essential to pay attention to subsequent care to ensure that the plant recovers and continues to grow healthy. Here are some guidelines on how to handle the plant after pruning and how to identify successful pruning:

• Continuous observation: After performing the LST, the plant continues to be seen closely. This will allow you to detect any sign of stress or problems in the bent branches.
• Branches: The branches that have been bent during the LST may take time to recover and grow upwards. Be patient and allows the plant to gradually adapt to new growth.
• Regular maintenance: As the plant grows, you may need to adjust its position again to maintain a uniform exposure to light. Continue bending the branches gently as necessary.
• Nutrients and irrigation: Make sure the plant receives the necessary nutrients and proper irrigation. The bent branches can affect the distribution of nutrients, so it is important to monitor the needs of the plant.
• Stress monitoring: Look at any sign of stress on the plant, such as yellow or withered leaves. If you notice severe stress somewhere in the plant, consider relieving tension in that area.
• Additional support: Depending on the size of your plants and the applied LST technique, you may need to provide additional supports for bent branches. Make sure they are safe and do not break due to the weight of the buds.
• Selective pruning: As the plant continues to grow, you can make selective pruning to eliminate unnecessary leaves or branches that are not receiving enough light. This will help improve air circulation and buds production.
• Pest and disease control: Keep constant control of pests and diseases in cannabis, since bent branches may be more vulnerable to these problems due to their greater density.
• Light measurement: Use a light meter to make sure the bent areas receive the right amount of lighting. Adjust the height of the lights if necessary.
• Maintenance pruning: It continues with regular maintenance pruning to maintain the shape and health of the plant as it grows.

A successful LST should result in a plant with a broader structure and a uniform exposure to light. Cogollos should grow more efficiently and abundantly. If you follow these Post-Poda care guidelines and pay attention to the needs of your plant, you can enjoy a more productive and high quality harvest.

Tips to avoid common mistakes after performing LST (Low Stress Training)

After applying the Low Stress Training (LST) technique to your plants, it is important to avoid common mistakes that may compromise the health and performance of the plant. Here are some tips to avoid these errors:

• Not over: Avoid applying too much pressure when folding the branches during the LST. The branches must be folded softly and gradually to avoid damage.
• Do not neglect: After performing the LST, it is crucial to continue observing and adjusting the branches as necessary. You do not assume that a single LST session is enough; It is a continuous process.
• Do not forget nutrition: Folded branches can affect the distribution of nutrients in the plant. Be sure to adjust your feeding practices to meet the needs of the plant.
• Not ignore stress: If you notice signs of stress in the plant, such as yellow or withered leaves, take measures to relieve tension in those areas. This may include the adjustment of the bent branches.
• Not leave abandoned branches: Make sure all branches have access to the right light and space. The bent branches should not be trapped or blocked by other parts of the plant.
• Do not neglect hygiene: Keep a clean environment around your plants to prevent pests and diseases. The LST can create densest areas in the plant, which increases the need for hygiene.
• Not be impatient: LST is a technique that requires time and patience. Do not expect immediate results, and allows the plant to gradually adapt to the changes.
• Not exceed fold: Avoid bending the branches too far or at extreme angles. This can damage the structural integrity of the plant.
• Do not ignore support: If you use supports to keep the branches bent instead, make sure they are safe and do not fall due to the weight of the buds.
• Keep: Constant observation is key to the success of the LST. Continues to evaluate the growth of the plant and make adjustments as necessary.

Following these tips and paying constant attention to your plants after applying LST, you can maximize the benefits of this technique and enjoy an abundant and high quality harvest. Patience and careful attention are fundamental for success in cultivation with LST.

Comparison of the LST technique with other pruning techniques

Below is a comparison of the Low Stress Training (LST) technique with other popular pruning techniques.

Comparison of LST with the Super cropping pruning

• Both techniques seek to improve the exposure of branches to light.
• Both LST and Super Cropping allow controlling the height of the plant.
• Both techniques can reduce competition between branches and improve energy and nutrient distribution.
• Super cropping implies bending and pinching the branches more intensively, often causing lower damage to the tissues, while LST focuses on gently folding the branches without damaging them.
• In LST, the branches are not cut or eliminated, while in Super Cropping, sometimes part of a branch can be removed.
• Super Cropping is mainly used to strengthen the branches and allow better exposure to light, while LST focuses on height control and light distribution.

LST comparison with Lollipopping

• Both techniques seek to improve the exposure of branches to light.
• Both LST and Lollipoping can help control the height of the plant.
• Both techniques can reduce competition between branches.
• Lollipopping implies the elimination of the lower branches and leaves, while LST does not require the elimination of any part of the plant.
• Lollipoping focuses on reducing the bottom of the plant to concentrate energy in the upper branches, while LST is used to fold the branches down and improve exposure to light.
• LST can be done earlier in the plant's life cycle, while Lollipopping is usually done in later stages.

Comparison of LST with Apical pruning

• Both techniques seek to improve the exposure of branches superior to light.
• Both LST and Apical Poda can control the height of the plant and redirect growth towards the main branches.
• Apical pruning implies the elimination of the top of the plant (the apex) to promote the growth of lateral branches, while LST does not imply the elimination of any part of the plant.
• LST focuses on gently folding the branches down to improve exposure to light, while Apical can change the growth pattern eliminating the main tip.
• LST is less invasive and can be done in earlier stages of plant growth, while apical pruning is usually done in later stages.

Comparison of LST with the Pruning Schwazzing

• Both techniques seek to improve the exposure of branches to light in specific stages of the plant's life cycle.
• Both LST and Schwazzing can help control the height of the plant and improve the distribution of light.
• Schwazzing implies the elimination of most leaves in specific stages and then stretching the branches out, while LST focuses on gently folding the branches down without eliminating leaves.
• LST is a softer and less invasive technique compared to Schwazzing, which can be more intensive in terms of leaf elimination.
• Schwazzing is done in specific stages and requires an intensive approach, while LST can be applied in several stages of the plant's life cycle.

Situations in which LST is more recommended

• Cultivation inside: LST is especially useful in the crop inside, where it is sought to maximize vertical and horizontal space, and a uniform distribution of artificial light is needed.
• Height control: When the plant height needs to be controlled precisely without compromising the production of buds, LST is an excellent option.
• Early training: LST can be applied in early stages of the plant's life cycle and can be a continuous training technique throughout growth.
• Plants with long branches: For plants that develop long branches that could shade other parts of the plant, LST can help redirect growth and improve sun exposure.

The final result: healthiest plants and more abundant crops

Apply the technique of LST correctly allows to obtain stronger, balanced plants and with a structure that maximizes the production of buds. At the end of the process, cultivators obtain more abundant and high quality crops, with dense and rich buds in trichomes, which raise both power and taste. This technique becomes an invaluable tool for those who seek Optimize performance of its cultivation without resorting to aggressive methods.

In Grow Industry, we have all the necessary tools so you can carry out the LST technique successfully. From precision scissors to tapes and wires for training, our catalog offers high quality solutions for your crops. Take advantage of this technique and raise your crops to a new level with trusted products!