Low Stress Training (LST) is one of the most effective techniques for increasing cannabis yields without any special equipment. By gently bending and tying down branches, you can create a flat, even canopy that maximizes light exposure to all bud sites.
What is Low Stress Training?
LST involves gently bending stems and branches and securing them in place. Unlike "high stress" techniques like topping or super cropping, LST doesn't damage the plant tissue. Instead, it redirects growth hormones and encourages the plant to grow more horizontally, creating multiple main colas instead of one.
Why Use LST?
- Increased yields: More bud sites receive direct light
- Better light penetration: Flat canopy means even light distribution
- Height control: Keep plants short for small grow spaces
- No recovery time: Unlike topping, plants continue growing without pause
- Works with autoflowers: Safe for plants that can't afford stress recovery time
What You'll Need
- Soft plant ties, garden wire, or pipe cleaners
- Small hooks or stakes (binder clips work great)
- Fabric pots (easy to attach ties) or drilling holes in plastic pots
- Patience and a gentle touch
When to Start LST
Begin LST when your plant has 4-6 nodes (sets of leaves). At this stage, stems are flexible enough to bend without breaking. For photoperiod plants, this is usually 2-3 weeks after germination. For autoflowers, start around day 15-20.
⚡ Autoflower LST Tips
Autoflowers have limited time, so start LST early and be extra gentle. Avoid any high stress techniques like topping. Focus on bending the main stem and opening up the center of the plant for light penetration.
Step-by-Step LST Guide
Step 1: Bend the Main Stem
Gently bend the main stem at about a 90-degree angle, securing it to the edge of the pot. This breaks apical dominance and signals the plant to develop multiple main colas. Go slowly - if you feel resistance, stop and try again later.
Step 2: Secure Lower Branches
As side branches grow upward toward the light, bend and tie them outward. Your goal is to create a flat, star-shaped canopy when viewed from above. Each branch tip should be roughly the same height.
Step 3: Continuous Adjustment
Check your plant daily. As new growth reaches upward, gently bend and secure it to maintain an even canopy. This is an ongoing process throughout vegetative growth (and early flowering for photoperiods).
Step 4: Remove Lower Growth (Optional)
Once you have a nice flat canopy, consider removing small branches and leaves below the canopy ("lollipopping"). This directs energy to the main bud sites and improves airflow.
Common LST Mistakes
- Starting too late: Older stems are woody and snap easily
- Bending too aggressively: Go slow, you can always bend more tomorrow
- Using harsh materials: Avoid wire directly on stems - it can cut into the plant
- Forgetting to adjust: Plants grow fast - check ties daily
- Not enough anchor points: Secure stems at multiple points for best control
LST vs Other Training Methods
| Method | Stress Level | Good for Autos? |
|---|---|---|
| LST | Low | Yes |
| Topping | High | Risky |
| FIM | Medium-High | Risky |
| Super Cropping | High | No |
| ScrOG | Low | Yes |
Combining LST with Topping
For photoperiod plants, combining topping with LST is extremely effective. Top your plant once it has 5-6 nodes, wait a few days for recovery, then begin LST on the two new main stems. This creates 4+ main colas instead of one.
The Bottom Line
LST is a low-risk, high-reward training technique that every grower should learn. It requires no special equipment, works on any cannabis plant, and can significantly increase your yields. Start gentle, be patient, and watch your plant transform into a bushy, bud-producing machine.
Ready to start growing? Check out our complete growing guide for step-by-step instructions from seed to harvest.