Library · Specialty crops
Training Methods.
Plant Training Method Comparison
Topping, FIM, LST, ScrOG, super-cropping, defoliation, mainlining. What each does, when to use it, what the trade-offs are.
When to train
| Stage | Suitable methods | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Seedling (first 2 weeks after germination) | None — let it establish | All training |
| Early veg (weeks 2-4) | Topping, LST | Heavy defoliation, super-cropping |
| Mid-late veg (weeks 4-8) | Topping, FIM, LST, mainlining, ScrOG net install, super-cropping | Final defoliation |
| Pre-flower (transition / first 2 weeks) | Final LST, ScrOG net adjustments | Topping (would slow flower onset 5-7 days) |
| Mid-flower (week 3-5) | Selective defoliation, lollipopping | Topping, mainlining, super-cropping |
| Late flower (week 6+) | Minor defoliation only | All major training |
Recovery time
Most training methods stress the plant. Recovery time before flowering should be planned:
- LST: minimal stress; recover in 1-3 days; can be ongoing
- Topping: 5-7 days recovery; new shoots from below take that long to express
- FIM: 5-7 days similar to topping
- Super-cropping: 3-5 days; plant should "rebuild" the broken section
- Defoliation (mid-flower): 5-10 days; may slow flower production briefly
- Mainlining (early veg): 7-14 days for symmetric branch establishment
For cannabis, plan to complete major structural training at least 2 weeks before flipping to flower. Last LST tweaks can happen at flip; major topping/super-cropping should not.
Free under CC BY 4.0. Cite as "OAT Training Method Comparison (openagriculturetechnology.com)".