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Cannabis Lollipopping training methods
Cannabis is grown for different purposes using different methods. Growers who care about female inflorescences and want to increase the yield of their cultivation practice the so-called training. It's a very apt name, because it's about deliberately damaging a plant so that it can regenerate itself and continue to grow bigger and stronger. In today's article, we'll look at a method called lollipopping. Seed producers and breeders agree that this is a great method of care that benefits the end result. Just like with any other method, getting it right is key. Here is a knowledge pill to help you understand Lollipopping.
What is Lollipopping?
Lollipopping is a cannabis training technique that involves cutting off the lower branches in order to concentrate the plant's development on the upper part, i.e. the main buds. The lower parts usually don't get enough light to fully develop. Removing them results in a more efficient use of the plant's energy, as the energy and nutrient load goes straight to the crown, rather than having to deal with the formation of small buds (commonly known as popcorn) at the bottom, which would probably still be immature or far off when harvested. quality compared to the tops of the plant.
Cannabis training techniques - Lollipoping, image source: royalqueenseeds.com
Ultimately, after a properly performed licking treatment, the buds are larger, more aromatic and richer in cannabinoids (properties). In varieties with a high THC content, you can expect a stronger psychoactive effect. Another advantage of licking is the increase in air circulation, which reduces the risk of diseases such as mold and pest attack. This is especially important when it gets thick and humid, such as when many crops are grown in a small space (SOG).
Lollipopping vs autoflowering cannabis strains
Lollipopping, like most pruning techniques, puts some stress on the plant. While full-season varieties respond well to such treatments, the case is not so obvious in the case of automatic varieties, which have little time to regenerate. The key to success is, firstly, choosing the right genetics, and secondly, getting it right. Seed producers often post information about whether a given variety was up to the task during breeding. Therefore, when choosing seeds for your collection, it is worth reading the product description. Most modern autos respond very well to lollipopping, which is why it is one of the most popular techniques used by growers.
Lollipop before and after. image source: royalqueenseeds.com
How is lollipopping performed correctly?
Lollipopping is done during the advanced phase of vegetation, when the plant already has a strong root system, usually a week before the start of flowering or in extreme cases by the 3rd week of flowering at the latest. Cut off all leaves, branches and small buds below 30-50% of the plant's current height. For beginners, it is recommended to keep the lower limit, because removing too many leaves and branches can result in disorders in the absorption of nutrients, and thus slower growth and lower yield. Pruning should be done quickly, e.g. with a sharp pruning shears, to stress the plant as little as possible. Before pruning, the tool should be thoroughly disinfected to get rid of bacteria and not expose the green ladies to infection. The cut should be made near the trunk, being careful not to damage it. Training should only take place on healthy and vigorous plants.
The name Lollipopping refers to the appearance of the plants after treatment, which resemble lollipops, with the content from the middle upwards, and the bare trunk below. Lollipopping can be the only or one of many techniques used during cultivation. On our blog you will find entries devoted to the most popular methods. When it comes to autos, they are typically SOG grown and licked to maximize results. Full-season varieties can put on an amazing show every time. They can be bent, trimmed in various ways, and look like real monsters when harvested. Hemp is an amazing plant, as we see every day.
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