{"id":770,"date":"2021-10-26T09:34:32","date_gmt":"2021-10-26T09:34:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/low-stress-training-lst-autoflowers-2\/"},"modified":"2026-05-12T09:02:20","modified_gmt":"2026-05-12T09:02:20","slug":"low-stress-training-lst-autoflowers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/low-stress-training-lst-autoflowers\/","title":{"rendered":"Low Stress Training (LST) Autoflowers"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If there\u2019s one thing you probably know about autoflowers is they can be far more sensitive than regular cannabis plants, due to their short natured life cycle. But, one topic that\u2019s recently been trending amongst the growing world is the act of low stress training (LST) autoflower plants. As autoflowers become more popular, professionally and personally, many are experimenting with the best ways to grow the most maximized and high-quality yields. So, should you LST autoflower or not? We\u2019ll answer that question and more in our ultimate LST autoflower guide.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id770_0c9828-9d .kb-table-of-content-wrap{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);}.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id770_0c9828-9d .kb-table-of-contents-title-wrap{padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id770_0c9828-9d .kb-table-of-contents-title{font-weight:regular;font-style:normal;}.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id770_0c9828-9d .kb-table-of-content-wrap .kb-table-of-content-list{font-weight:regular;font-style:normal;margin-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;}<\/style>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"0-the-basics-of-low-stress-training\">What is Low-Stress Training<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before we cover low-stress training autoflowers, let\u2019s refresh ourselves on what LST actually is. Low stress training cannabis plants describes the art of training your cannabis plants with low-stress techniques that manipulates canopy shape for varying benefits. Why? The idea is to disrupt the plant\u2019s natural apical dominance or natural way of growing upward with one centra cola. By doing so you\u2019re training the plant\u2019s side branches to grow alongside the main cola, overall maximizing growth and weight.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Examples of LST for autos include bending branches by tying or staking, SOG or SCROG (more about that later) methods. While low-stress training techniques are common for regular photoperiod cannabis varieties because autoflowers have a short life cycle even the slightest stressor can stunt or halt growth. This is why LST for autos is somewhat debated amongst the growing world.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\n\t<style type=\"text\/css\">\n\t\t.slider-info-200004055.bafg-slider-info .bafg-slider-title {\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tfont-size:\n\t\t\t\t\t22px\t\t\t\t;\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t}\n\n\t\t.slider-info-200004055.bafg-slider-info .bafg-slider-description {\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t}\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t.slider-info-200004055.bafg-slider-info .bafg_slider_readmore_button {\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\ttext-align: center;\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t}\n\n\t\t.slider-info-200004055.bafg-slider-info .bafg_slider_readmore_button:hover {\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t}\n\t<\/style>\n\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"bafg-twentytwenty-container slider-200004055  \"\n\t\t\t\tbafg-orientation=\"horizontal\" bafg-default-offset=\"0.5\"\n\t\t\t\tbafg-before-label=\"Before\"\n\t\t\t\tbafg-after-label=\"After\" bafg-overlay=\"1\"\n\t\t\t\tbafg-move-slider-on-hover=\"\"\n\t\t\t\tbafg-click-to-move=\"\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy\t\t\t\t\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Autoflower_cannabis_plant_LST_tr\u2026_202605081304-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Before LST training\">\n\t\t\t\t<img class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy\t\t\t\t\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Autoflower_cannabis_plant_LST_tr\u2026_202605081308.jpg\" alt=\"After LST training\">\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"bafg-slider-info-wraper\">\n\t\t<div style=\"\" class=\"slider-info-200004055 bafg-slider-info\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t\t\t<style type=\"text\/css\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/style>\n\t\t\t\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-when-should-i-start-low-stress-training-autoflowers\">When Should You Start Low Stress Training Autoflowers?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Timing is essential when you are growing autoflowering plants. You should begin to LST autoflowers when the plant has developed enough foliage to allow for bending and shaping, typically around the third week of the vegetative stage. Starting early helps in creating a more even canopy, allowing for better light penetration and airflow.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"carousel-slider-outer carousel-slider-outer-product-carousel carousel-slider-outer-1519\" style=\"--carousel-slider-nav-color:#f1f1f1;--carousel-slider-active-nav-color:rgb(79,228,31);--carousel-slider-arrow-size:48px;--carousel-slider-bullet-size:10px;--cs-product-primary:rgb(79,228,31);--cs-product-on-primary:#f1f1f1;--cs-product-text:#323232\">\n<div id=\"&#039;id-1519\" class=\"carousel-slider carousel-slider-1519 arrows-visibility-never dots-visibility-never arrows-outside dots-center dots-circle owl-carousel\" data-slide-type=\"product-carousel\" data-owl-settings='{\"nav\":false,\"dots\":false,\"slideBy\":1,\"stagePadding\":0,\"margin\":10,\"loop\":true,\"lazyLoad\":false,\"autoplay\":true,\"autoplayTimeout\":5000,\"autoplaySpeed\":500,\"autoplayHoverPause\":true,\"autoWidth\":false,\"responsive\":{\"300\":{\"items\":2},\"576\":{\"items\":2},\"768\":{\"items\":2},\"1024\":{\"items\":4},\"1280\":{\"items\":4},\"1536\":{\"items\":4}}}'>\n<div class=\"product carousel-slider__product\"><a class=\"woocommerce-LoopProduct-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/moonrocks-autoflower-seeds\/\"><span class=\"acoplw-badge\"><span class=\"acoplw-badge-icon acoplw-bsseven acoplwLeftAlign acoplwPosTop acoplw-custom-badge-200003886\" style=\"opacity:1;width:60px;font-size:14px;line-height:px;font-weight: 600;height:60px;transform:rotateX(0deg) rotateY(0deg) rotateZ(0deg);border-radius: 0px 0px 0px 0px;top:15px;bottom:auto;left:15px;background:rgba(255, 0, 0, 1);\"><span class=\"acoplw-blockText\" style=\"color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 1);\">Add 3 Packs, Pay For 2<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"208\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/moonrocks-autoflower-1-208x300.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium\" alt=\"Auto Moonrocks\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/moonrocks-autoflower-1-208x300.jpg 208w, https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/moonrocks-autoflower-1-300x432.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/moonrocks-autoflower-1-64x92.jpg 64w, https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/moonrocks-autoflower-1.jpg 350w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 208px) 100vw, 208px\" \/><\/span><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/moonrocks-autoflower-seeds\/\"><h3 class=\"woocommerce-loop-product__title\">Auto Moonrocks<\/h3><\/a><span class=\"price\"><span class='wmc-cache-pid ' data-wmc_product_id='610'><span class=\"woocommerce-Price-amount amount\"><span class=\"woocommerce-Price-currencySymbol\">&pound;<\/span>38.95<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/div><div class=\"product carousel-slider__product\"><a class=\"woocommerce-LoopProduct-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/godfather-og-autoflower-seeds\/\"><span class=\"acoplw-badge\"><span class=\"acoplw-badge-icon acoplw-bsseven acoplwLeftAlign acoplwPosTop acoplw-custom-badge-200003886\" style=\"opacity:1;width:60px;font-size:14px;line-height:px;font-weight: 600;height:60px;transform:rotateX(0deg) rotateY(0deg) rotateZ(0deg);border-radius: 0px 0px 0px 0px;top:15px;bottom:auto;left:15px;background:rgba(255, 0, 0, 1);\"><span class=\"acoplw-blockText\" style=\"color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 1);\">Add 3 Packs, Pay For 2<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"208\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/Godfather-og-autoflower-1-208x300.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium\" alt=\"Godfather OG Auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/Godfather-og-autoflower-1-208x300.jpg 208w, https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/Godfather-og-autoflower-1-300x432.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/Godfather-og-autoflower-1-64x92.jpg 64w, https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/Godfather-og-autoflower-1.jpg 350w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 208px) 100vw, 208px\" \/><\/span><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/godfather-og-autoflower-seeds\/\"><h3 class=\"woocommerce-loop-product__title\">Godfather OG Auto<\/h3><\/a><span class=\"price\"><span class='wmc-cache-pid ' data-wmc_product_id='611'><span class=\"woocommerce-Price-amount amount\"><span class=\"woocommerce-Price-currencySymbol\">&pound;<\/span>38.95<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/div><div class=\"product carousel-slider__product\"><a class=\"woocommerce-LoopProduct-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/do-si-dos-autoflower-seeds\/\"><span class=\"acoplw-badge\"><span class=\"acoplw-badge-icon acoplw-bsseven acoplwLeftAlign acoplwPosTop acoplw-custom-badge-200003886\" style=\"opacity:1;width:60px;font-size:14px;line-height:px;font-weight: 600;height:60px;transform:rotateX(0deg) rotateY(0deg) rotateZ(0deg);border-radius: 0px 0px 0px 0px;top:15px;bottom:auto;left:15px;background:rgba(255, 0, 0, 1);\"><span class=\"acoplw-blockText\" style=\"color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 1);\">Add 3 Packs, Pay For 2<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"208\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/do-si-do-autoflower-1-208x300.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium\" alt=\"Do Si Dos Auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/do-si-do-autoflower-1-208x300.jpg 208w, https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/do-si-do-autoflower-1-300x432.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/do-si-do-autoflower-1-64x92.jpg 64w, https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/do-si-do-autoflower-1.jpg 350w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 208px) 100vw, 208px\" \/><\/span><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/do-si-dos-autoflower-seeds\/\"><h3 class=\"woocommerce-loop-product__title\">Do Si Dos Auto<\/h3><\/a><span class=\"price\"><span class='wmc-cache-pid ' data-wmc_product_id='612'><span class=\"woocommerce-Price-amount amount\"><span class=\"woocommerce-Price-currencySymbol\">&pound;<\/span>32.95<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/div><div class=\"product carousel-slider__product\"><a class=\"woocommerce-LoopProduct-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/gorilla-glue-autoflower-seeds\/\"><span class=\"acoplw-badge\"><span class=\"acoplw-badge-icon acoplw-bsseven acoplwLeftAlign acoplwPosTop acoplw-custom-badge-200003886\" style=\"opacity:1;width:60px;font-size:14px;line-height:px;font-weight: 600;height:60px;transform:rotateX(0deg) rotateY(0deg) rotateZ(0deg);border-radius: 0px 0px 0px 0px;top:15px;bottom:auto;left:15px;background:rgba(255, 0, 0, 1);\"><span class=\"acoplw-blockText\" style=\"color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 1);\">Add 3 Packs, Pay For 2<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"208\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/Gorilla-Glue-thumb-208x300.png\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium\" alt=\"Gorilla GG4 Auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/Gorilla-Glue-thumb-208x300.png 208w, https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/Gorilla-Glue-thumb-300x432.png 300w, https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/Gorilla-Glue-thumb-64x92.png 64w, https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/Gorilla-Glue-thumb.png 350w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 208px) 100vw, 208px\" \/><\/span><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/gorilla-glue-autoflower-seeds\/\"><h3 class=\"woocommerce-loop-product__title\">Gorilla GG4 Auto<\/h3><\/a><span class=\"price\"><span class='wmc-cache-pid ' data-wmc_product_id='509'><span class=\"woocommerce-Price-amount amount\"><span class=\"woocommerce-Price-currencySymbol\">&pound;<\/span>32.95<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/div><\/div><!-- .carousel-slider-1519 -->\n<\/div><!-- .carousel-slider-outer-1519 -->\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How does LST help you control apical dominance?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Cannabis plants typically exhibit apical dominance, where they develop a main, central bud surrounded by smaller side branches. While some growers appreciate this natural form for its impressive central bud, this structure can lead to higher moisture retention and an increased risk of mold, especially in conditions where humidity control is challenging for beginners. Low-Stress Training (LST) disrupts this by limiting the production of the growth hormone auxin, which normally promotes vertical growth. Instead, energy is redirected to lateral growth, producing a plant with a more uniform and bushy appearance. This technique is especially useful in controlling plant height and structure in limited spaces, enhancing airflow around the buds, and reducing the likelihood of mold in denser, top-heavy colas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Does low stress training autoflowers increase yield?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Absolutely! LST can significantly impact your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/how-much-do-autoflowers-yield\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/how-much-do-autoflowers-yield\/\">autoflower yield<\/a> by more than 100% in some cases. Average autoflower yields range from 30 &#8211; 150g per plant so if you want to be near the top end you have to employ training techniques like scrog and tie and bend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-advantages-amp-disadvantages-of-lst-for-autos\">Advantages &amp; Disadvantages of LST for Autos<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So far, as growers expand the use of low stress training autoflower plants we\u2019ve collectively come across some advantages and disadvantages. Those being<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-advantages-of-low-stress-training-autoflowers\">Advantages of Low-Stress Training Autoflowers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maximize light exposure for maximized yields<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; With even levels of light you can seen increased bud sites to maximize yields.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decreased vertical space<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; If you\u2019re low on ceiling space, low stress training autoflowers will help by training the plant to grow more horizontally vs vertically.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Denser buds<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Some growers report denser, fatter nugs with LST autoflower plants most likely due to increased light exposure.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Control space &amp; stretching<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; You can maximize the amount of space you have with your grow room by controlling and manipulating stretching of the plant.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-disadvantages-of-low-stress-training-autoflowers\">Disadvantages of Low-Stress Training Autoflowers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Could stress plant and stunt or halt growth<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; When not done properly, LST for autos can stunt growth or halt it completely.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plant stress or stunts can minimize yields and overall quality<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; If low stress training autoflower plants do become stressed or stunted, your yields and quality will be negatively affected.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-how-to-lst-autoflower-plants\">How To LST Autoflower Plants<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/LST-Training.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/LST-Training.jpg\" alt=\"Cannabis Plant Buds Low Stress Training \" class=\"wp-image-6723\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re willing to take the slight risk of the disadvantages that LST for autos may cause &#8211; here are the most common ways to implement LST techniques for autoflowering plants.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-bending-amp-tie-down\">LST Bending &amp; Tie-Down Technique On Autoflowers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the easiest LST methods for autoflowers is the art of bending and tying down branches. It\u2019s also one that\u2019s preferable amongst growers since it rarely results in growth stunts or issues. To do so successfully, basically, you\u2019ll slightly bend the top branches to become in line with the rest of the canopy. Therefore manipulating a more horizontal canopy versus vertical. By typing the branches to the edge of the pots (make holes and use green tie!) you can control the structure of the plant\u2019s growth to maximize light exposure. Therefore, bulking up buds that normally would have been in the shadows of other branches. In turn, maximizing yields overall.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Tie and Bend method is perfect for training individual plants. Follow these steps:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Choose the branch<\/strong>: Select a strong, healthy branch that you want to train.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bend gently<\/strong>: Carefully bend the branch towards the ground. Be gentle to avoid snapping the branch.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Secure the branch<\/strong>: Use soft ties to secure the branch to the pot or stake. Leave some slack for growth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Adjust ties<\/strong>: As the plant grows, keep adjusting ties to encourage horizontal growth without putting too much stress on the branches.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Repeat<\/strong>: Apply this technique to other branches, shaping the plant according to your preference.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Monitor growth<\/strong>: Keep an eye on the plant&#8217;s growth and make necessary adjustments to the ties.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7-scrog\">How to ScrOG On Autoflowers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SCROG or Screen of Green references the installation of a \u2018screen\u2019 above the plant canopy to provide support and stability. The idea is, the top canopy of the plant with the additional support becomes \u2018high-value\u2019. By removing the lower branches, growers allow the plant to divert its energy to the top branches. Learn more with our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/how-to-scrog-autoflowering-cannabis-plants\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">complete guide to scrog growing autoflowers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Screen of Green (ScrOG) focuses on creating a uniform canopy to maximize light exposure. Follow these detailed steps:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Install a screen<\/strong>: Place a screen 20-25 inches above your pots. The screen should have squares of about 2 inches to allow branches to pass through.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Weave the branches<\/strong>: As your autoflowers grow, gently weave the branches through the screen&#8217;s holes. Be cautious not to snap the branches.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Maintain and tuck<\/strong>: Continue tucking the branches as they grow to ensure an even canopy. This maximizes light exposure to all parts of the plant.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Prune lower growth<\/strong>: As the canopy develops, prune lower branches and leaves that don\u2019t receive enough light. This helps in focusing the plant&#8217;s energy on the top buds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Monitor and adjust<\/strong>: Keep an eye on the plants\u2019 growth, and raise the screen if necessary to avoid stress or damage to the branches.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Harvest<\/strong>: Once the buds are fully developed and ready, harvest the top portion and allow the lower buds to mature further before final harvesting.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-sog\">How to SOG Autoflowers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SOG or Sea of Green method is another that\u2019s common for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/autoflower-vs-feminized-photoperiod-seeds\/\">photoperiod and autoflowering plants<\/a>. To learn more about the simple LST technique and how to integrate it for your crops, read our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/how-to-scrog-autoflowering-cannabis-plants\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/how-to-scrog-autoflowering-cannabis-plants\/\">complete guide to SOG growing autoflowers.<\/a>&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You should also keep in mind that certain strains and genes will respond or react differently to LST techniques than others. <\/span>For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/45-day-autoflower-seeds\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/45-day-autoflower-seeds\/\">45 day autoflowers<\/a> are well suited to the SOG method because they mature so quickly that using techniques such as topping doesn&#8217;t allow for enough recovery time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sea of Green is ideal for cultivating numerous plants in a limited space efficiently. Follow these steps:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Plant closely<\/strong>: Plant your autoflowers close together, typically around 1 plant per square foot.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Prune selectively<\/strong>: Prune the plants to ensure that they don\u2019t compete too aggressively for light or space.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Monitor growth<\/strong>: Keep an eye on how the plants are developing, ensuring that none are being overshadowed or stressed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Harvest in stages<\/strong>: As plants mature at different rates, harvest in stages. This allows less mature plants to receive <a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/the-best-autoflower-nutrient-feeding-schedule\/\" data-wpil-monitor-id=\"31\">more light and nutrients<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Which is the Best LST Method for Autoflowers?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing the best LST technique for your autoflowers depends on your goals and the resources at your disposal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are a commercial grower or cash cropper looking for a low maintenance approach with a focus on efficiency for a large number of plants, then the Sea of Green (SOG) technique might be your best bet. It\u2019s great for efficiently utilizing large grow spaces and optimizing the quantity of the harvest. The low maintenance aspect of SOG also allows for better management when dealing with a considerable number of plants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, if you are a home grower aiming to maximize the yield per plant, the Screen of Green (ScrOG) and Tie and Bend approaches are likely to give you the best results. Both ScrOG and Tie and Bend are excellent for concentrating efforts on a smaller number of plants and achieving the highest yield possible from each, however these approaches are more time consuming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9-tips-for-successfully-low-stress-training-autoflowers\">Tips for Successfully Low-Stress Training Autoflowers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In general, for any autoflower low-stress training techniques &#8211; be sure to keep these best practices in mind.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"color: revert; font-size: revert; font-weight: revert;\"><strong>Time LST right<\/strong><\/span>: <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: initial;\">You should do the most of your LST for autos in the first 4 weeks of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/autoflower-life-cycle-week-by-week-in-pictures\/\">the plant\u2019s life cycle<\/a>. But, don\u2019t do it too often either. It\u2019s recommended to implement low stress training for autoflowers once in the first 4 weeks, and never during flowering.&nbsp;<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"color: revert; font-size: revert; font-weight: revert;\"><strong>Use thick twine<\/strong><\/span>: <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: initial;\">To avoid damaging your plant\u2019s fragile young branches, use thick twine versus ones that can easily slice or cause breakage.&nbsp;<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Only during veg:<\/strong> You should only low stress train your plants <a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/how-long-do-autoflowers-veg-for\/\" data-wpil-monitor-id=\"56\">during the vegetative stage<\/a>, once they reach the flowering stage let the plants focus on producing buds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"color: revert; font-size: revert; font-weight: revert;\"><strong>Choose a suitable strain:<\/strong><\/span><span style=\"background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2); font-size: revert; color: initial;\"> Do your research and <\/span>chose a an autoflower strain that is well suited to LST training such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/ultra-lemon-haze-autoflower-seeds\/\" data-type=\"product\" data-id=\"291\">Ultra Lemon Haze<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10-improving-autoflower-yields-with-lst\">Improving Autoflower Yields with LST<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With the knowledge you\u2019ve gained today, now you know how to improve and even <a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/how-to-maximize-autoflower-yields\/\">maximize autoflower yields<\/a> with LST. Plus, the best tips and tricks to follow to do so successfully. What always helps optimal growth is high-quality seeds to start with. So, look no further than AutoSeeds for top-notch autoflowering seeds and genetics. Shop our collection now, or browse our growing guides for more best practices and growing advice.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11-is-lst-or-topping-better-for-autoflowers\">Is LST or Topping Better for autoflowers?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For autoflowers, LST is typically more suitable due to their short life cycle. Topping, being a form of HST, may stress autoflowers too much. With such as short vegetative stage the risk here is that you stress the autoflower too close to the flowering phase and growth is delayed or stunted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Does low stress training slow growth?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Low Stress Training is used to shape the growth of plants and increase yield. It is generally a very gentle training technique when compared to methods like topping and fimming, but like any form of training, if applied too aggressively, it can temporarily slow down a plant&#8217;s growth. The key with LST is to manipulate the plant&#8217;s structure without causing significant stress or damage, allowing for healthy development while gently guiding its form and size.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How long does low stress training take to recover from?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>After low stress training if you start by bending your autoflower plant, there might be a brief period, typically a day or two, during which growth could slow as the plant adjusts, especially if any stems were inadvertently damaged. However, because LST is designed to be a gentle method of training, plants often experience minimal to no significant recovery time and quickly resume their normal growth patterns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12-how-do-i-stop-my-autoflower-from-getting-too-tall\">How Do I Stop My Autoflower from Getting Too Tall?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To keep autoflowers from getting too tall, employ the LST techniques discussed above, particularly the Tie and Bend method. This promotes a bushier growth rather than vertical height.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If there\u2019s one thing you probably know about autoflowers is they can be far more sensitive than regular cannabis plants, due to their short natured life cycle. But, one topic that\u2019s recently been trending amongst the growing world is the act of low stress training (LST) autoflower plants. As autoflowers become more popular, professionally and &hellip; <\/p>\n<p class=\"link-more\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/low-stress-training-lst-autoflowers\/\" class=\"more-link\">Continue reading<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> &#8220;Low Stress Training (LST) Autoflowers&#8221;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":771,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[80],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-770","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-training-and-yield"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/04\/LST-Autoflower.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Auto Seeds","author_link":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/author\/auto_user\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/770","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=770"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/770\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":200004056,"href":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/770\/revisions\/200004056"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/771"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=770"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=770"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.autoseeds.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=770"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}