Training, Pruning & Plant Structure
Plant Height
Plant height refers to how tall a cannabis plant grows from the base of the stem to its highest point. It is influenced by genetics, light conditions, growth stage, and cultivation techniques.
What plant height means in cannabis cultivation
Plant height describes the vertical growth of a cannabis plant over its life cycle, measured from the root crown or soil surface to the top of the main stem or tallest branch. It is a critical factor in cultivation planning, as excessive or insufficient height can affect light penetration, airflow, and overall plant health.
How genetics determine height potential
Genetics largely determine a plant’s natural height potential. Some cannabis varieties are predisposed to grow tall with wide internodal spacing, while others remain short and compact. These inherited traits establish the baseline for how much vertical growth a plant can achieve under ideal conditions.
How environmental conditions influence vertical growth
Environmental conditions strongly influence plant height. Light intensity, spectrum, and distance from the canopy affect how much a plant stretches, particularly during the vegetative stage and early flowering. Low light or improper light placement can cause excessive elongation, while optimal lighting promotes balanced vertical growth.
The connection between plant height and growth stage
Plant height is closely tied to growth stage. Rapid vertical expansion often occurs during the vegetative stage and the early flowering period, commonly referred to as the stretch. During this phase, plants may increase in height significantly as they transition to flower production.
How growers manage and control plant height
Growers actively manage plant height using cultivation techniques such as topping, training, pruning, and controlling the length of the vegetative stage. These practices help maintain appropriate height for grow spaces, improve light distribution, and reduce the risk of plants growing too close to light sources.
Why understanding plant height matters
Understanding plant height allows growers to select suitable strains, plan grow environments, and prevent common issues such as light burn, overcrowding, and uneven canopies. Proper height management contributes to healthier plants and more efficient use of available space.
Related terms:
Plant Size, Stretch, Vegetative Stage, Internodal Spacing, Light Distance, Canopy Height, Topping, Training Techniques.
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