LST — Low Stress Training Complete Guide
LST is the single best training technique for beginners. It increases yield dramatically with almost no risk of plant stress. Here is everything you need to know.
Why LST Works
An untrained cannabis plant grows as a natural Christmas tree shape with one dominant central cola. All lower branches receive less light than the top. LST involves bending and tying down the main stem and branches horizontally, creating an even canopy where all bud sites receive equal light intensity. More light per bud site = more buds = bigger yield.
What You Need
Soft garden ties, twist ties, or pipe cleaners. Wooden stakes or the fabric pot handles to tie to. That is it. No special tools required. Do not use wire or anything that can cut into stems.
How to LST — Step by Step
Start when the plant has 4–5 nodes (about 2–3 weeks old). Gently bend the main stem sideways to a 90-degree angle and secure it with a tie to the pot edge or a stake. The stem will want to spring back initially. As it grows, continue bending new growth outward and down. Lower branches will shoot upward to become equal-height colas. Adjust ties every 2–3 days during fast growth.
LST During Flowering
Continue LST in early flower (first 2–3 weeks) to spread branches and maximise bud site exposure. After week 3 of flower, stems harden and become more difficult to bend without breaking — stop major repositioning at this point. You can still tuck leaves away from bud sites (lollipopping) throughout flower.
Quick Tips
- Water your plant an hour before LST — turgid stems are more flexible and less likely to snap.
- If a stem cracks slightly, do not panic — tape it with electrical tape and it will heal within a week.
- Combine LST with topping for maximum yield — but master LST alone first.