Plant training in the indoor grow: more yield through targeted control

In indoor growing, we strive for maximum yield and healthy, strong plants. But did you know that you can actively influence the growth of your plants and thus increase the yield? We’re talking about plant training! With various techniques such as LST (low stress training), topping and supercropping, you can steer growth in the desired direction and optimize light distribution. In this article, we will introduce you to the most common training methods and show you how to spur your plants on to peak performance.

Why plant training?

Plant training offers numerous advantages:

• Yield increase: By optimizing the light distribution and forming several main shoots, you can significantly increase the yield of your plants.
• Better use of light: The plants are shaped in such a way that all areas are optimally exposed to light. This promotes photosynthesis and growth.
• More compact plants: The training keeps the plants smaller and bushier, which makes them ideal for indoor cultivation.
• Improved air circulation: An open plant structure ensures better air circulation and prevents mold growth.
• Healthier plants: Targeted growth control makes plants more robust and less susceptible to disease.

Training techniques at a glance

1st LST (Low Stress Training):

LST is a gentle method in which the plants are bent and fixed to guide growth. No direct pruning is used, so the plants are exposed to less stress.

Implementation: Carefully bend the main shoot downwards and secure it with plant ties or similar. This will encourage the lateral shoots to grow and achieve a more even distribution of light.

Tip: Start with LST in the vegetative phase, when the plants are still young and flexible.

2. topping:

When topping, the main shoot of the plant is cut to promote the growth of the lateral shoots. This results in a bushier plant with several main shoots.

Procedure: Cut off the main shoot above the second or third leaf node. Use sharp, clean scissors for this.

Tip: Topping can be carried out several times during the vegetative phase to further branch out the plant.

3. FIMing:

FIMing (Fuck, I Missed) is a variation of topping in which the main shoot is not cut off completely, but only clipped. This leads to even stronger branching.

Procedure: Pinch off the tip of the main shoot with your fingers or tweezers. Make sure that you do not remove the entire shoot.

Tip: FIMing is slightly more demanding than topping, but can lead to even better results.

4. supercropping:

Supercropping is a technique in which the stems of the plants are pinched in order to direct growth. This leads to stronger branching and increased resin production.

Procedure: Gently squeeze the stem at the desired point until it becomes soft. Make sure that you do not break the stem completely.

Tip: Supercropping should only be carried out by experienced growers, as it puts a lot of strain on the plants.

5. scrogging (screen of green):

In scrogging, the plants are guided horizontally along a net. This results in an even distribution of light and optimum use of the cultivation area.

Implementation: Stretch a net over the plants and weave the shoots through the mesh as they grow.

Tip: Scrogging is particularly suitable for plants with strong growth and a long flowering period.

What to look out for during plant training?

• Hygiene: Always work with clean hands and tools to avoid infection.
• Timing: Start training in the vegetative phase, when the plants are still young and flexible.
• Observation: Observe your plants closely and react to signs of stress.
• Patience: Plant training takes time and patience. Don’t expect results immediately.
• Choice of variety: Not all varieties are equally suitable for training. Find out about the properties of your chosen variety in advance.

Conclusion

Plant training is an effective way to control the growth of your plants and maximize yield. Using various techniques such as LST, topping and supercropping, you can optimize light distribution, keep plants more compact and improve air circulation. Pay attention to hygiene, timing and observation so as not to overwhelm the plants. With a little practice and patience, you will become a master of plant training and achieve abundant harvests.