Pruning cannabis plants is one of the best ways to promote growth and increase yield. A properly pruned plant develops more shoots, becomes bushier, and grows healthier.

Many beginners wonder: When is the best time to prune cannabis? This article provides a simple and practical guide – whether you’re growing indoors or outdoors.

Why should you prune cannabis plants?

Pruning cannabis involves selectively removing parts of the plant. This concentrates its energy on more important areas, leading to more side shoots and ultimately a larger harvest.

Advantages of pruning:

• Improved light distribution on branches and leaves
• Improved air circulation and reduced risk of infection
• Bushier growth through targeted pruning
• Higher yield due to more flower buds

When is the right time to prune?

The ideal time for pruning is during the vegetative phase . In this growth phase, the plant recovers more quickly and develops new shoots. This ensures a healthy plant with a stable structure.

Tip: Wait until your plant has 4–6 nodes (pairs of leaves) before you start pruning. Pruning too early risks stunted growth.

Indoor vs. Outdoor: Are there differences?

Pruning is particularly important in indoor cultivation due to limited space. A controlled growth pattern helps to use light efficiently.

Outdoors, the plants have more space. Nevertheless, regular, clean pruning is still necessary outdoors to prevent infections and keep the plant healthy .

Step-by-step instructions

1. Prepare tools

Use clean, sharp scissors. This will ensure a clean cut that helps prevent disease.

2. Cut off the top of the plant

Cut above the third or fourth node. This will encourage two new main shoots, promoting growth and a bushier plant .

3. Observe the plant

After pruning, your plant will recover and produce new shoots. Make sure it receives enough light, water, and nutrients.

Topping or LST – which is better?

Low Stress Training (LST) and topping are two different techniques for controlling the growth of cannabis plants. LST involves carefully bending and fixing branches. Topping, on the other hand, means cutting off the top of the plant .

Both methods promote bushy plants and improve light uptake. Beginners often use LST (Low Stress Training) because it causes less stress. Experienced growers combine both methods for maximum effect.

Checklist: How to prune successfully

• Wait for the vegetative phase
• Use disinfected tools
• Cut above the third or fourth node
• Observe the plant closely after cutting.
• Never cut more than 20–30% at one time.

What to do after circumcision?

After pruning, it’s important that the plant has optimal conditions. It should receive enough light , be watered regularly, and well-ventilated. This will allow the plant to regenerate healthily and develop new growth.

Give her 2-3 days of rest and avoid further manipulation. This will reduce the risk of stress and illness.

Our recommendation: These cuttings are particularly suitable

For beginners, we recommend robust varieties that are easy to prune. Particularly suitable are:

• Amnesia – High-yielding & easy to prune
• Gorilla Glue – Resilient & bushy
• Lemon Haze – Stable & ideal for beginners

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

When should you prune a cannabis plant?

During the vegetative phase – ideally after the fourth pair of leaves.

Can you prune autoflower cuttings?

Use caution. Autoflowering plants flower quickly and regenerate less effectively. Experienced growers tend to prefer LST (low stress training).

What to do if pruning is too severe?

Excessive pruning can stress the plant. Prune in small increments and allow it to regenerate.

How often can you cut?

Once or twice during the growth phase is sufficient. After that, only remove leaves that block light.

Which tool is ideal?

Clean, sharp trimming or garden shears are ideal. Disinfect them before each cut.

Conclusion

Cutting cannabis plants is easier than many people think. With the right timing, clean cuts, and robust cuttings, you can specifically promote plant growth and maximize yield .

Get started now: Discover our cannabis cuttings – ideal for healthy, successful cultivation.