When to Bend Over Your Pot Plant

One of the most important things about growing a pot plant is knowing when to take care of it properly. One of the things that you need to know about taking care of a pot plant is when to bend it over. There are certain times when it is best to bend over your pot plant, and certain times when it is not. In this article, we will go over when to bend over your pot plant and what to consider when doing so.

When to Bend Over Your Pot Plant

The best time to bend over your pot plant is during the vegetative stage. This is when your plant is still growing and developing its leaves and stems, and it is also when it is most receptive to training. If you wait too long, the plant will become too tall and unwieldy, making it difficult to train or to reach the lower branches. The vegetative stage is usually the first 3-4 weeks of a plant's life, depending on the strain and growing conditions.

What to Consider When Bending Over Your Pot Plant

When you bend over your pot plant, you are essentially training it to grow in a certain direction. This can help improve the yield and overall health of the plant, but it can also cause stress and damage if not done properly. Here are some things to consider when bending over your pot plant:

The health of the plant: Only bend over your plant if it is healthy and strong. If it is already stressed or struggling, bending it over can cause further damage.

The size of the plant: It is easiest to bend over a small plant with flexible stems. If your plant is already too large or rigid, it may be difficult or impossible to bend over without causing damage.

The angle of the bend: When bending over your pot plant, try to keep the angle between 45-90 degrees. This will help stimulate growth and allow for better light exposure, while minimizing stress and damage.

The timing of the bend: Bend over your plant during the early to mid-vegetative stage, before the plant becomes too tall and sturdy. Avoid bending over your plant during the flowering stage, as this can cause stress and affect the final yield.

How to Bend Over Your Pot Plant

Now that you know when and what to consider when bending over your pot plant, let's go over the steps involved:

Prepare your tools: You will need a pair of gardening scissors or pruning shears to make the bend.

Select a stem: Choose a healthy, flexible stem that is not too thick or woody.

Cut the stem: Use your scissors or shears to make a clean cut about 1-2 inches above the base of the stem. Be careful not to damage any nearby leaves or branches.

Bend the stem: Hold the stem gently and bend it over at a 45-90 degree angle. You may need to use your other hand to guide the stem into position.

Secure the stem: Use a small piece of string or wire to tie the stem to the side of the pot or stake. This will help keep it in position and prevent it from snapping back.

Remember, bending over your pot plant can be a great way to improve its growth and yield, but it should be done with care and consideration. Make sure to choose the right time, stem, angle, and tools, and be gentle and patient throughout the process. With some practice and experience, you can become a pro at training and caring for your pot plants!