Understanding High-Stress Training (HST)
High-Stress Training involves intentionally stressing the cannabis plants to stimulate certain growth responses. Unlike Low-Stress Training (LST), which focuses on gentle manipulation, HST applies moderate stress to encourage specific changes in the plant's structure and characteristics.
Benefits of High-Stress Training (HST)
High-Stress Training offers several benefits that can enhance the quality and yield of cannabis plants:
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Controlled Growth: HST allows cultivators to have more control over the growth patterns of cannabis plants. By subjecting the plants to stress, growers can shape and direct their growth according to their desired outcomes.
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Increased Bud Development: By inducing stress, HST can stimulate the plant to produce more lateral branches and colas, resulting in increased bud development. This technique can lead to higher yields and improved overall quality of the buds.
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Improved Light Penetration: HST techniques such as defoliation or pruning can enhance light penetration throughout the canopy. This ensures that lower bud sites receive adequate light, promoting their development and contributing to a more uniform and productive canopy.
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Enhanced Airflow: HST methods often involve manipulating the plant's structure, which can open up the canopy and improve airflow. This helps reduce the risk of mold and pests, as well as improving overall plant health.
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Maximized Space Utilization: By controlling growth through HST, cultivators can optimize the use of available space, especially in indoor cultivation environments. This allows for efficient use of grow area and maximizes overall yield potential.
High-Stress Training Techniques
There are several techniques commonly used in High-Stress Training:
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Topping: Topping involves removing the apical bud or main stem tip, stimulating the growth of multiple main colas. This technique encourages bushier growth and the development of multiple bud sites.
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Supercropping: Supercropping, as mentioned in a previous article, involves strategically damaging the branches to redirect the plant's energy and encourage lateral growth. This technique can help improve light distribution and increase bud development.
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Main-Lining: Main-Lining involves creating a symmetrical plant structure by pruning and training the plant to have equal-sized branches. This technique promotes a more even canopy and facilitates better light penetration.
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ScrOG (Screen of Green): ScrOG involves using a screen or netting to train the branches horizontally, creating an even canopy and maximizing light exposure to the lower bud sites. This technique helps promote uniform growth and increased bud production.
High-Stress Training Considerations
When practicing High-Stress Training, it is important to keep the following considerations in mind:
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Timing: Begin HST techniques during the vegetative stage when the plant is robust and can recover more easily from the stress. Avoid using HST techniques during the flowering stage to prevent excessive stress that could affect bud development.
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Recovery Time: After subjecting the plants to stress, allow them sufficient time to recover before initiating further training or manipulation. Monitor the plants closely and provide proper care during the recovery period.
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Plant Health Monitoring: Regularly monitor the plants for signs of stress and adjust training techniques accordingly. It is crucial to strike a balance between stressing the plants for desired outcomes and ensuring their overall health and vitality.
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Experience and Skill: High-Stress Training techniques require experience and skill to execute effectively. It is important to familiarize yourself with the specific techniques, learn from experienced growers, and gradually apply the techniques as you gain proficiency.
High-Stress Training (HST) is an advanced technique that allows cannabis cultivators to exert more control over plant growth and shape. By applying moderate stress through techniques such as topping, supercropping, main-lining, and ScrOG, growers can manipulate the plant's structure, increase bud development, and optimize the use of space. However, it is essential to practice HST with care, closely monitor plant health, and provide appropriate recovery time to ensure the best outcomes.
