How to Keep Pot Plants Small

If you're growing pot plants indoors or on a balcony, you may want to keep them small for a variety of reasons, such as limited space or discreetness. Fortunately, there are several ways to do this. Here are some tips on how to keep your pot plants small:

1. Choose the Right Strain

The first step in keeping your pot plants small is to choose a strain that naturally grows compactly. Look for strains labeled "dwarf," "lowryder," or "auto-flowering." These strains tend to have a shorter stature than other varieties, making them ideal for small spaces.

2. Trim Regularly

To encourage your pot plants to stay small, you'll need to regularly trim them back. Start by removing any dead or yellowing leaves, then move onto the main stems. Use sharp, sanitized scissors to snip off the top of each stem, just above a set of leaves. This will help stimulate bushier growth, rather than tall, spindly stems.

3. Control the Lighting

The amount and type of lighting your pot plants receive can have a significant impact on their size. If you're growing indoors, consider using low-intensity LED lights, which provide a gentle, steady glow. You can also use a light timer to ensure your plants receive 12 hours of light per day, followed by 12 hours of darkness. This will help regulate their growth and encourage them to stay small.

4. Use Low-Stress Training Techniques

Low-stress training (LST) techniques can be used to train your pot plants to grow in a certain direction, while keeping the overall size small. One common LST technique is to gently bend the stems using pipe cleaners or soft ties, creating a flat canopy. This will promote lateral growth, which can help keep plants short and bushy.

5. Limit Nutrients

In general, pot plants that receive fewer nutrients tend to stay smaller. While you don't want to deprive your plants of essential nutrients, you can limit their intake to keep their size under control. Use a fertilizer with a lower nitrogen content, and consider using a half-strength solution to reduce the overall concentration of nutrients.

6. Consider Training Techniques

In addition to LST, there are several other training techniques that can help keep your pot plants small. One popular technique is to use a screen or net, which can be placed just above the canopy of the plants. As the plants grow, their branches will spread out to fill the screen, creating a flat, even top. This technique is known as "screen of green," and can help maximize your yield while keeping your plants small.

Conclusion

Keeping your pot plants small requires a combination of careful strain selection, regular trimming, proper lighting, and training techniques. By following these tips, you can ensure your plants stay healthy and compact, while still producing a quality yield.