Pruning cannabis: pros, cons and advice
It is important for both beginners and experienced growers to pay attention to proper pruning of cannabis. This procedure is not very difficult - it is enough to understand it once to significantly increase both the quantity and quality of the harvest in the future. It is worth emphasizing that pruning is a useful and effective manipulation that brings many benefits to most plants.
There are many ways to train bushes to increase yield, but pruning remains one of the simplest and most accessible methods. Of course, there are exceptions, for example, autoflowering varieties, which require a separate approach - we will consider them a little later.
Benefits of Trimming Marijuana
The main advantages of this technique include:
- Accelerated development. Correctly performed pruning helps the cannabis plant grow faster and reach larger sizes.
- Change in growth direction. The bush stops concentrating its resources on striving for light upwards and begins to develop in width. This is especially useful for outdoor cultivation, where reducing the height of the plant can be a significant advantage.
- Increased yield. This effect is a result of the previous two - the released resources are used to form larger and more abundant inflorescences.
- Possibility of using SOG and SCROG techniques. Even distribution of the plant on the grid helps to use the light as efficiently as possible.
- Moderate stress. The key word is "moderate". Pruning, of course, causes stress, but if approached correctly, it is not destructive, but rather beneficial. Mild stress stimulates the plant and can increase the content of resin, THC, CBD and other cannabinoids.
What strains of marijuana should be trimmed?
The pruning technique is primarily suitable for photoperiod varieties. Their life cycle is controlled by the grower (indoors) or the duration of the warm season (outdoors). Even in outdoor conditions, the plant usually has enough time to recover from stress and benefit from the new form.
Autoflowering varieties ripen strictly according to age, regardless of the light cycle. Therefore, pruning is often detrimental to them. Even if the plant can recover from the procedure, the lack of time will not allow it to fully utilize the benefits of pruning, which will negatively affect the yield. In such cases, it is better to let the autoflowers grow naturally.
Disadvantages of Trimming Cannabis
The most obvious disadvantage is the inefficiency of the method when growing autoflowering varieties. Many growers prefer autoflowering strains, but pruning is contraindicated for them.
Are there any other negative aspects? One of the main risks is the possibility of overdoing it, especially for beginners. Photoperiod varieties are much more difficult to harm than autoflowering ones, but mistakes by an inexperienced grower can still have a negative impact on the plant.
If you use high-quality cannabis seeds and follow proven recommendations, the chance of failure even with the first pruning is significantly reduced.
Marijuana Trimming Tips
It is very important not to start pruning the plant too early. Pruning is applied only after the beginning of the vegetative stage, when the young bush has time to grow at least five to seven leaves.
Many growers prefer to prune four to five weeks after germination. During this period, the plant is actively developing, and pruning will help redirect growth to the side branches. At later stages of vegetation, and especially during flowering, pruning should be stopped, limiting itself only to periodic removal of leaves that prevent light from reaching the buds.
It is very important not to overdo it with pruning, since excessive stress can slow down the development of the bush. Pruning should be systematic and careful, with sufficient time for recovery after each procedure - several days. It is best to prune in the morning, since at this time the plant tolerates stress better than in the evening..
A Few More Important Factors When Trimming Cannabis
It is worth remembering that growing is a serious activity that requires attention to many factors. The frequency and degree of pruning largely depend on environmental conditions. If the plant is growing in harsh conditions, pruning should be done as carefully and cautiously as possible.
The genetics of the variety are no less important. The effectiveness of pruning varies for different species. The method shows itself especially well when growing sativa. Indica-dominant varieties are usually low-growing and compact, forming squat bushes.
Some varieties are able to withstand beginner mistakes and cope with severe stress, while others are more capricious and react poorly to any deviations in care.
If you carefully monitor the condition of the plant and work carefully, the grower will definitely learn how to prune correctly, getting maximum benefit and a high yield..
