Topping vs. LST: How to Train Cannabis Clones for Bigger Yields

Topping is high-stress training: you cut the growth tip to split one stem into two colas. LST, or low-stress training, is bending and tying branches down without cutting to open the canopy. Topping changes plant structure fast but needs recovery; LST is gentler, works on any plant, and the two combine well for an even, high-yielding canopy.

How each technique works

We run a Colorado nursery, and nearly every plant we grow gets one or both of these. Topping breaks the plant's apical dominance by removing the main tip, forcing two side branches to become co-dominant. It is a clean cut, a bit of stress, and a few recovery days in exchange for a bushier, more even plant.

LST leaves the plant intact. You bend the main stem and branches outward and tie them down, exposing lower bud sites to direct light. No wound, no recovery period, and you can do it continuously as the plant grows. LST works on autoflowers and photoperiods alike because it adds no real stress.

Topping versus LST compared

Factor	Topping	LST
Stress level	High, cuts tissue	Low, just bending
Recovery time	3 to 7 days	None
Changes structure	Fast, splits main stem	Gradual, reshapes over time
Works on autos?	Cautiously	Yes, ideal
Tools needed	Sharp shears	Soft ties, hooks
Beginner friendly	Moderate	Very

How to top a plant

1. Wait until the plant has 4 to 6 healthy nodes.
2. Choose a cut point above the third or fourth node.
3. Cut cleanly through the stem just above that node with sterile shears.
4. Remove the whole tip. Two side shoots below will take over as new mains.
5. Allow 3 to 7 days of recovery before more training.

How to LST a plant

1. Start when the plant is young and flexible, usually 3 to 5 nodes.
2. Gently bend the main stem to one side and secure it with a soft tie or hook.
3. Pull the tallest branches outward and down, flattening the canopy.
4. Re-tie every few days as the plant grows and stretches back up.
5. Keep the canopy level so all tops sit in the same light.

Which should you use, or should you combine them?

We rarely treat this as either-or. The strongest approach on photoperiod plants is to top once or twice to build structure, then LST the resulting branches into a flat, even canopy. Topping gives you more main colas; LST spreads them into the light. Together they beat either method alone.

On autoflowers we lean almost entirely on LST because their fixed clock leaves little room to recover from a topping. If you only pick one, LST is the safer, more universal choice. For a deeper look at the mother plants that supply your training stock, see our mother plants guide, and browse the strain directory to pick genetics that respond well.

Every technique here works better with strong genetics. Browse our rooted, HLVd-tested clones or start with forgiving beginner strains.

Frequently asked questions

Is topping or LST better for yield?

Combined, they outperform either alone. Topping multiplies your main colas and LST spreads them into even light, so bud sites finish uniformly. On its own, LST gives a gentle yield bump with no stress, while topping gives a bigger structural change at the cost of recovery days. For most photoperiod grows, do both.

Can I LST an autoflower?

Yes, and it is the preferred training for autos. LST adds no real stress and needs no recovery, so it fits an autoflower's fixed timeline perfectly. Start early while stems are flexible and keep re-tying as the plant grows. Avoid topping autos unless you are experienced, since a stall can permanently cut yield.

When can I first top a clone?

Wait until the clone is well rooted and pushing new growth with 4 to 6 solid nodes. A barely rooted cutting lacks the vigor to recover from a cut. Once it is clearly established and growing fast, it can handle topping and rebound within a week. LST can start even earlier, as soon as stems bend.

Does topping hurt the plant?

It causes controlled stress that a healthy plant recovers from in 3 to 7 days. Use clean, sharp shears to make a quick cut just above a node, and keep conditions stable afterward. The brief setback is worth the bushier, more even structure. Stressed or unhealthy plants should be topped only once they recover.

Great training starts with vigorous stock. Browse our cannabis clones for sale for freshly rooted plants ready to top and tie.