High Stress Training (HST) is a technique that aims to manipulate the growth and shape of cannabis plants through targeted interventions. This technique can promote higher yields and a more even distribution of flower heads. Here are the main HST methods and a detailed explanation of how they are performed.
High Stress Training Methods
- Topping
- Fimming
- Supercropping
- Main lining
1. Topping
Description: Topping involves cutting back the top growth of the plant to redirect growth into side shoots and produce more main colas.
Procedure:
- Timing: Top when the plant has developed 4-6 leaf nodes.
- Cutting: Cut the tip of the main stem just above the third or fourth node.
- Recovery: Give the plant time to recover and develop new shoots from the upper nodes.
Result: The plant becomes bushier and develops several main colas instead of a single one.
2. Fimming
Description: Fimming (Fuck, I Missed) is similar to topping, but less of the main stem is cut, resulting in even more new shoots.
Procedure:
- Timing: Perform fimming when the plant has developed 4-6 leaf nodes.
- Pruning: Cut off about 75% of the tip of the newest growth.
- Recovery: Allow the plant to heal and watch several new shoots develop.
Result: The plant produces 4 or more new main shoots from the cut area.
3. Supercropping
Description: Supercropping is the deliberate damage of the plant by bending or squeezing the stems in order to make them more stress-resistant and bushier.
Procedure:
- Timing: Supercrop during the vegetative growth phase.
- Technique: Choose a flexible branch and squeeze it between your fingers until you hear a slight crack. Carefully bend the branch in the desired direction.
- Support: If necessary, support the bent branch with bamboo sticks or similar material.
Result: The plant develops stronger, thicker stems and distributes hormones more evenly, leading to bushier growth.
4. Main lining
Description: Main-lining combines topping and LST to shape the plant symmetrically and achieve an even distribution of flowers.
Procedure:
- Timing: Start topping when the plant has developed 4-6 nodes.
- First topping: Cut the main stem above the third node.
- Topping side branches: When the new side shoots have developed 3-4 nodes, top them as well to create more main shoots.
- Tying: Use garden wire or twine to tie the new shoots horizontally and distribute the growth evenly.
Result: The plant develops a symmetrical structure with several evenly distributed main colas.
Tips and tricks
- Disinfect tools: Disinfect your tools before and after pruning to prevent infection.
- Stress management: Give the plant time to recover after each HST treatment before taking further action.
- Observe: Monitor the plant regularly for signs of stress or disease.
- Patience: HST requires patience and diligence to achieve the best results.
Advantages of HST
- Increased yields: By encouraging more main stems and a more even distribution of flowers, the overall yield can be significantly increased.
- Stronger plants: HST can help the plant become more robust and resistant to environmental influences.
- Efficient use of light: A bushier plant uses light more efficiently, which is especially beneficial when growing indoors.
Conclusion
High Stress Training is an effective method for maximizing the growth and yield of cannabis plants. Through targeted pruning and bending, you can control and optimize the growth of your plants. With patience and diligence, you can achieve impressive results with HST.
