When it comes to cultivating cannabis, growers are always looking for ways to increase yield without sacrificing plant health. One of the most effective methods is cannabis plant training, a practice that allows growers to control growth patterns, optimize light distribution, and produce bigger harvests.
By applying plant training techniques, growers can transform ordinary plants into structured, efficient producers capable of thriving in any growing environment. Whether you are growing indoors in a small tent or outdoors in a larger space, training can make all the difference.
Why Train Cannabis Plants?
Cannabis plants naturally grow tall with one main cola. While this works in the wild, it isn’t always ideal for growers working in confined spaces or those wanting higher yields. Cannabis plant training helps solve this by redistributing energy across multiple bud sites.
Benefits include:
Improved light penetration for lower branches.
Increased airflow to prevent mold and pests.
Stronger stems that can hold heavy buds.
Controlled height for indoor setups.
More uniform and manageable plants.
With training, every branch becomes an opportunity to produce top-quality flowers.
Low-Stress Training (LST)
Low-Stress Training is one of the most beginner-friendly methods. It involves gently bending branches and tying them down so that the canopy grows evenly. Since LST doesn’t involve cutting or heavy stress, plants recover quickly and continue growing vigorously.
Advantages of LST:
Easy for beginners.
Works well in small grow tents.
Increases bud site exposure without slowing growth.
This technique is often paired with trellises or soft plant ties to keep branches in place.
Topping and FIMing
Topping involves cutting off the plant’s main stem, encouraging it to grow two new colas instead of one. FIMing is similar but involves a partial cut, resulting in several new growth tips.
While this method is more stressful for the plant, the payoff is larger yields and bushier growth. However, topping should be done early in the vegetative stage to allow time for recovery.
The Screen of Green (SCROG) Method
The SCROG technique is popular among experienced growers who want maximum efficiency. By placing a screen or trellis net above the plants, growers can weave branches through the net, creating a wide, flat canopy.
Why SCROG Works:
Maximizes light coverage.
Promotes even bud growth.
Prevents overcrowding.
SCROG is especially useful in indoor setups where light efficiency is critical.
Super Cropping
Super cropping is an advanced technique where growers pinch or bend branches to slightly damage inner tissues. This encourages the plant to grow back stronger with thicker stems and better nutrient flow. While it sounds harsh, when done correctly it produces more resilient plants with increased yields.
Trellising for Support
Trellises are not just for SCROG—they also provide essential structural support as buds get heavier. Outdoor growers often rely on trellises to protect plants from wind and weather, while indoor growers use them to keep branches upright.
A durable trellis system is a must-have tool for serious growers. It prevents breakage, improves airflow, and ensures even bud development across the plant.
Combining Techniques for Best Results
The most successful growers often combine multiple training methods. For example, topping can be followed by LST to shape the new growth evenly. SCROG can also be combined with pruning to remove unnecessary lower branches.
The key is observation. Every plant is different, and training should be adjusted based on growth stage, strain genetics, and growing environment.
Best Practices for Cannabis Plant Training
Start early in the vegetative stage for best results.
Always be gentle—avoid snapping branches unless you are super cropping intentionally.
Monitor growth daily to guide branches as needed.
Use clean tools for topping or pruning to prevent infection.
Choose the right trellis or netting system for your grow size.
Final Thoughts
Cannabis plant training is more than just a gardening technique—it’s a strategy for maximizing yield, improving plant health, and making the most of your growing space. From simple methods like LST to advanced techniques like SCROG and super cropping, training gives growers the power to shape their plants and their harvests.
With patience and the right tools, anyone can master plant training. The reward is healthier plants, bigger buds, and more successful harvests season after season.
