Mainlining Cannabis Plants: How Do You Do It?

Have you ever dreamt of a harvest overflowing with frosty, potent buds? Well, your dream can become a reality! 

Only, you gotta work for it by training your cannabis plants to perform just a bit more. You can employ various training techniques to bring the best out of your plant. 

Some growers don't bother training their plants as they are happy with a single cola, or the usual Christmas tree shape. But, if you want bigger yields, you will need to put some effort so your plant performs to its maximum potential. 

Talking of training techniques, mainlining, a popular training method, helps to transform your cannabis plant from a single-cola producer into a bud-blossoming powerhouse. 

But what exactly is it, and how does it differ from other training techniques? Let's delve into everything you need to know about mainlining in this article below. Here, you’ll learn not only what it means but also how you can do this to unlock your plant’s full potential. And, of course, we will discuss the benefits and disadvantages of using this unique technique on your cannabis plants. 

What is Mainlining?

Here's the lowdown: mainlining is a training method that tricks your plant into growing multiple big, beautiful colas instead of just one. Kinda like creating a Y-shaped hub (we call it a manifold) at the top of your plant, which makes the plant direct its energy toward a bunch of branches instead of just one main stalk. 

And the best part? Mainlining is surprisingly easy. Once you create your initial manifold, it's just rinse and repeat on new growth, essentially doubling your potential colas with each snip. Imagine the possibilities: 4 colas, 8 colas, 16 colas...you might need a bigger stash box by the end of it!

Of course, there's always a catch (or two). Mainlining does require a bit more patience than just growing your cannabis normally. You'll need to give your plant some extra time in the veggie stage (think at least 8 weeks) to recover and establish its new multi-cola structure. Plus, topping your plant can be stressful, so make sure your green buddy is healthy and strong before you snip. 

To be honest, a little extra patience and care is a small price to pay for an excellent harvest. But before we get into how to use this method, let’s take a look at its pros and cons. 

Benefits of Mainlining Cannabis Plants

Mainlining offers a range of advantages with the most significant one being the yield. With this training method, your cannabis plant will produce colas that produce massive buds instead of just one at the top. But there’s more to this method than just the yield. Aside from yield, you can expect various other benefits from mainlining. Let’s dive in. 

• Higher Yields 

Yes, we mentioned this, but let us reiterate. One of the perks of mainlining is the increase in yield it brings to your harvest. By shaping your plant to produce sizable colas rather than a single central bud, you multiply the possible bud locations. 

Picture a plant with a single cola compared to one with 8, 16, or even 32 well-developed colas – that's the type of yield enhancement mainlining can provide. However, don’t get carried away. It’s best to stick to only 8 colas rather than having a bunch of them. 

• Uniform, Strong Growth

Mainlining does more than just create bud sites; it fosters a more balanced overall plant growth. By promoting a distribution of energy, nutrients, and hormones throughout the plant, you avoid putting all your resources into one spot (or cola). 

This results in a more vigorous plant with an expanded canopy size that is prepared to improve bud growth across all its branches.

• Better Light Distribution

Dealing with light distribution in untrained cannabis plants is a common challenge. The top colas often overshadow the lower bud sites, limiting their growth potential. This is where mainlining comes into play. This training method focuses on creating multiple colas that are equally distant from the light — a uniform canopy. This improves light distribution significantly. 

• Beginner Friendly

While mainlining may appear daunting to new growers, it's actually quite beginner-friendly. Compared to high-stress training methods, mainlining falls on the other end of the spectrum. It involves making cuts and gently manipulating branches using ties or a canopy ring. With some practice and following the right steps, new growers can master mainlining in no time. 

However, don’t be under the illusion that you can be successful without basic knowledge. You will probably fail a few times at the beginning because successfully mainlining cannabis necessitates a grasp of plant physiology and training methods. If you don’t want to take the risk, stick to other techniques that are easier. Once you get a grip on them, you can move to other advanced techniques like mainlining. 

• Suitable for Indoor and Outdoor Growth

One of the great things about mainlining is its versatility — it can be seamlessly incorporated into both outdoor cannabis cultivation practices.

Indoor cultivators can utilize mainlining to make the most of their space by creating a canopy that ensures optimal light distribution for each plant. Similarly, outdoor growers can enjoy advantages with the bonus of a sturdier plant structure that's less prone to wind damage — particularly useful during transitional seasons or in greenhouse settings.

• Optimizing Limited Space

Many growers face the challenge of running out of space. Mainlining offers a solution by enabling you to grow plants in a smaller area without compromising on yields. By establishing a canopy that maximizes distribution, every plant can thrive without having to compete with neighboring plants for sunlight. This technique proves invaluable for growers working within compact grow spaces.

• Low Maintenance Requirements 

One of the benefits of mainlining is that most of the work occurs during the growth stages. Once you have set up the manifold (the Y-shaped branch structure), minimal ongoing maintenance is needed. This allows you to concentrate on other aspects of your plant's growth while they reciprocate by increasing bud production significantly.

Downsides of Mainlining Cannabis Plants

Image Credit - @Troy_Farms 

Sure, mainlining has several benefits but it also has some downsides. Here are some of the major downsides of this training method:

• Time-consuming

Mainlining can be quite time-consuming for beginners and even those with experience. It demands attention and precise pruning during the vegetative phase. In short, it takes at least eight weeks for the best results, which may not be ideal for growers with time constraints.

• Plant Stress

Mainlining can be very stressful on cannabis plants in the initial stages of training. This stress can sometimes result in stunted growth, ultimately leading to reduced yields if not handled correctly.

Of course, all training methods involve stressing the plants to some degree so their defense mechanism is triggered, forcing the plants to grow more. Thus, stress isn't such a bad thing in cannabis cultivation. However, you should know how to control stress or it can be detrimental. 

For instance, pruning the plants is an important part of mainlining, but it can be stressful for the plants. When you trim a plant, you're cutting off parts that it has put effort into growing. This might slow down growth temporarily as the plant uses its energy to heal and redirect growth to areas. However, if you only prune the parts that are obstructing the light and preventing it from reaching the lower parts of the plant, you can use pruning to your advantage. 

Similarly, topping involves removing the tip of the plant when it has developed a few nodes. This is done to encourage new growth from lower parts. While it promotes side growth and makes the plant bushier, it could initially inhibit growth. For this reason, top only once or twice and let the plant grow after that. 

Also, while mainlining deals with training above ground, any major changes above can affect the root system too. Plants might feel stressed as they adapt to nutrient and water distribution.

Apart from the stress that occurs due to training, the plants can also face stress due to changes in environmental factors. Trimming foliage affects a plant's ability to photosynthesize and absorb light, causing stress until it adapts to the environment. In addition, variations in moisture, temperature, or air circulation can also add to the strain.

Therefore, allow some recovery time for the plants to recuperate between pruning or training sessions. If plants do not get enough time, they might experience stress resulting in hindered growth or other complications.

In addition, to reduce the impacts of stress during mainlining, you can ease into the techniques gradually rather than doing it all at once, especially if your plants are young or delicate.

Also, ensure that your plants are thriving with lighting, suitable humidity levels, and adequate airflow. Healthy plants are more resilient against stress. Supply your plants with nutrients to aid their growth and recovery. Consider incorporating supplements like seaweed extract or beneficial microbes to assist plants in dealing with stress.

• Increased Risk of Pests and Diseases

Trimming and shaping plants can create openings (think open wounds) in them, making them more prone to pest attacks and diseases. Without attention, mainlined plants could be at risk of getting infested or infected.

• Potential for Errors

Making mistakes in pruning or topping can harm the plant. Some overzealous beginners top way too much or prune almost every leaf (yes, this is true), hoping that the plant grows back into a monster. Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way. 

If you mess up with the training, the plant could get stunted or grow abnormally, both of which can lead to loss of yields. 

• Limited Adjustability

Once a plant has undergone mainlining and its structure is set, it becomes difficult to make alterations. This lack of flexibility could pose challenges for growers who prefer to incorporate other styles of cultivation. 

• Decreased Yield if Not Done Correctly

While proper mainlining techniques have the potential to boost yields, improper execution or inadequate recovery time between training sessions could result in lower yields compared to other training approaches.

• Not Suitable for All Strains

Certain cannabis varieties may not react well to mainlining due to their traits or growth patterns. Thus, you might have to experiment to figure out the training approach for a specific strain.

Things to Keep in Mind When Mainlining Cannabis Plants

Mainlining is an advanced training technique, so you need to remember a few things when experimenting with your cannabis plants. 

• Uneven Growth

At times, plants that are pruned may show abnormal or uneven growth, where some branches grow faster or stronger than others. This can result in an imbalanced canopy and yield. To tackle this issue, adjust your methods to promote uniform growth. Additionally consider using techniques like low-stress training (LST) to shape and manipulate branches for a balanced canopy.

• Nutrient Deficiencies

Plants that undergo pruning may be at risk of experiencing deficiencies due to the added stress from training. Keep a watch on your plants for signs of deficiencies such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth and adjust your nutrient routine accordingly. Consider utilizing a balanced fertilizer designed specifically for cannabis during the vegetative phase to ensure your plants receive the necessary nutrients.

• Dealing with Crowded Canopies and Insufficient Light

As your mainlined plants grow, it's common to face issues like overcrowding in the canopy, which can hinder distribution and airflow. To tackle this, make sure to trim away some foliage to maintain a well-ventilated and open canopy. Additionally, consider using methods such as defoliation to eliminate leaves that are obstructing light from reaching the lower branches.  

• Addressing Drooping or Wilting

At times, mainlined plants might display signs of drooping or wilting due to stress factors, like overwatering, underwatering, or unfavorable environmental conditions. Check the moisture level in the soil regularly. Adjust your watering routine accordingly. Also, make sure your plants are not exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity levels that could add stress to them.

Despite these downsides, many growers discover that the advantages of mainlining, such as increased yields and better canopy control outweigh the difficulties linked with this method. By practicing and paying attention, you can lessen these challenges and effectively mainline your cannabis plants.

It’s important to understand the downsides so you don’t walk into it with the wrong mindset. If you’re okay with these downsides, let’s understand how to mainline cannabis plants. 

How to Use Mainlining on Cannabis?

Image Credit - @Ugo_Grower

Before we delve into the step-by-step process of mainlining your cannabis plants, let's gather the necessary tools for this training method. Thankfully, mainlining is a relatively simple technique that doesn't require complex tools. Here's what you'll need:

1. Sharp Pruning Shears

Precision is key when making clean cuts on your plant. Invest in a good pair of pruning shears to ensure a smooth operation.

2. Plant Ties

These anchors will gently guide your branches into the desired horizontal position. You can use cable ties or softer alternatives like garden ties or twist ties made from coated wire. Cable ties offer sturdiness, but be mindful not to over-tighten them and damage delicate stems. Softer ties provide more flexibility but might require more frequent adjustments. Choose the option that best suits your comfort level and plant size.

3. Let’s Manifold the Plant

The manifold is the cornerstone of a successful mainlining experience. It essentially acts as a Y-shaped junction at the top of your plant, redirecting its energy towards multiple branches instead of just one central cola. Let's walk through the creation process, and we'll show you how to utilize it throughout the vegetative phase to maximize your cola count.

Step 1: Wait for at least five nodes

Wait until your seedlings have developed between 5 and 8 nodes. Resist the urge to jump the gun and top too early, as immature plants might struggle to recover.

Step 2: Make the First Cut

Make a clean cut at the 3rd node (the 3rd pair of leaves from the base) to remove the upper portion of the plant.

Step 3: Remove Any Additional Growth 

Eliminate any additional growth and vegetation below the 3rd node. You should now have a central stem with two prominent fan leaves branching out from the top, forming a Y-shape — the foundation of your manifold.

Step 4: Tie The Shoots Down

With your two main shoots prepared, carefully tie them down horizontally, parallel to the ground. Remember, young cannabis plants are delicate, so handle them with care. Secure the other end of the ties to the edge of the pot to maintain their position and promote even growth.

If executed correctly, your cannabis plants should demonstrate rapid recovery. Now that the central manifold is established, the roots will efficiently distribute nutrients and resources between the two shoots emerging from the 3rd node. 

To maximize yields, we recommend aiming for at least eight colas. 

4. Time to Mainline 

Here's a detailed breakdown of the mainlining process of transforming your single-cola contender into a multi-cola champion:

Step 1: Allow the Branches to Grow 

Allow each branch of your established manifold to develop four new sets of leaves. Patience is key here, as sufficient growth ensures the plant can handle the upcoming manipulation.

Step 2: Carefully Top Your Plant Again 

Similar to the initial manifold creation, carefully top each side of the manifold down to the 3rd node. This will encourage further branching and growth.

Step 3: Remove Some Growth From the Second Node 

This is where things differ slightly from the first round. Instead of removing all the growth below the 3rd node, only remove the second node this time. Essentially, you're keeping node one (the lowest one) and node three intact.

Step 4: Repeat the Process

Repeat the selective topping process on the other side of the manifold. Once complete, you should have a total of eight shoots — two pairs of leaves emerging from each of the original two main branches.

Step 5: Maintain Symmetry 

Remember, symmetry is crucial for optimal growth and bud development. Regularly adjust the plant ties to ensure both central branches remain tied down and the bases of the new shoots grow parallel to the ground. Aim for even growth by checking on your plants twice a week and making minor adjustments as needed.

Step 6: Time for TLC

With your plant topped and secured, it's time to focus on providing the essentials — water, nutrients, and adequate light. As the plant grows, monitor its height based on your grow space limitations. Once you're happy with the overall size, initiate flowering by switching the light schedule to 12/12 hours of light and darkness.

Congratulations! By following these steps, you've successfully mainlined your cannabis plants. In a few short weeks, you'll be rewarded with a bountiful harvest of dense, high-quality buds! Remember, you can continue with standard pruning and management practices during the flowering stage to further optimize your yield.

Additional Tips for Mainlining Cannabis Plants

Image Credit - @kardel

Conquered the core mainlining steps? Here's how to push your yields even further:

• Trim excess fan leaves just before flowering to maximize light exposure for all those new colas.
• Only mainline healthy plants — weak ones might struggle to recover.
• Check plants twice a week during the vegetative phase to maintain structure and make minor adjustments if necessary.
• Find the balance — secure branches for symmetry, but avoid restricting natural growth. Use gentle ties!
• Mainlining works with hydroponics! Just be creative with how you secure branches without soil anchoring.

These pro tips will have you well on your way to mainlining mastery and harvesting a bounty of top-shelf buds!

Does Mainlining Require A Net?

Mainlining eliminates the requirement for a net, unlike its counterpart, ScrOG. The main distinction lies in how these two training methods impact branch growth. By topping of your plants and forming a manifold in mainlining, you essentially deceive the plant into producing robust secondary stems instead of one thick main stem. 

Picture the stem of an untrained plant. It's much thicker than any other branch. Mainlining compels the plant to replicate that strength across other branches, not just one. This negates the need for support nets since these strengthened branches are structured to support themselves.

Conversely, ScroG depends on a net to offer support to the existing branches and achieve light distribution throughout the canopy. While both methods aim for increased yields they pursue it through different strategies. 

Mainlining concentrates on creating branches topped with bud sites enabling self-support for the plant. ScroG, on the other hand, uses a net to manage the canopy and ensure that all branches receive light for optimal bud growth.

There's one exception to this self-sufficiency in mainlining. During the flowering phase, when colas become heavy with buds, even some strong branches may struggle under the weight. This is where stakes or poles can help provide support to prevent branch breakage. By placing these supports, you can help your mainlined plants reach their potential and turn their extra branches into a truly abundant harvest.

How Does Mainlining Differ From Other Training Techniques?

In the realm of cannabis cultivation, various training methods promise enhanced yields. While they all share the aim of achieving a bigger harvest, each method has its unique approach. Here's a comparison of how mainlining differs from ScrOG (Screen of Green), LST (Low-Stress Training), and super cropping;

Mainlining vs. ScrOG (Screen of Green)

Emphasis: Mainlining focuses on creating multiple colas topped with bud sites. The plant structure thrives on self-support, thanks to these reinforced branches. On the other hand, ScrOG focuses on achieving a canopy by utilizing a net for support and evenly distributing light.

Netting: Mainlining eliminates the use of a net, altogether. ScrOG heavily relies on a net to control the canopy and guarantee that all branches receive light.

Difficulty Level: Both methods demand planning and implementation. Mainlining could be slightly easier for novices because it does not involve manipulating a net, though.

Mainlining vs. Low Stress Training (LST)

Stress Levels: Mainlining involves topping which can cause some stress to plants. LST, however, involves bending and tying methods to minimize stress.

Number of Colas: Mainlining aims for a significant increase in colas, potentially up to 8 or 16. On the other hand, LST focuses on an increased yield by keeping the plant structure bushier but with better air and light penetration.

Maintenance: Mainlining requires attention during the stages of topping and manipulating branches whereas LST is a relatively simple process throughout.

Mainlining vs. Super Cropping

Technique: Mainlining consists of pruning and shaping during the veg phase whereas super cropping is a high-stress technique that encourages lateral growth with a pinch in the branch.

Skill Level: You get better with practice when it comes to both methods, but super cropping is more tricky. It also carries a higher risk due to grower error. 

Choosing the Right Technique

The ideal training method depends on your objectives and level of experience. To make it easier for you, here’s a short guideline:

• For yields and manageable plant structure, Mainlining is a great choice if you're willing to dedicate extra time during veg. 
• For those looking for an easy approach, Low-Stress Training (LST) provides a good balance between increasing yield and ease of management. 
• On the other hand, experienced growers seeking a boost may find Super Cropping to be a potent tool in skilled hands. 

It's important to weigh the pros and cons of each technique to choose the one that best fits your needs and supports the growth of your cannabis garden.

Is Mainlining Suitable for Autoflowering Varieties?

Image Credit - @pzwags420

In general, mainlining is not recommended for autoflowering cannabis plants. Here's why:

Shorter Life Cycle

Autoflowers enter their flowering stage based on age, not light cycles, and this transition happens around 3-4 weeks of growth. Mainlining requires a recovery period after topping and training, which could delay flowering and disrupt the plant's natural cycle.

Stress Sensitivity

Autoflowers are more prone to stress compared to photoperiod plants. The topping and training involved in mainlining can be particularly stressful for them, potentially impacting their growth and yield.

Limited Recovery Time

Due to their predetermined life cycle, autoflowers have a very small recovery window after experiencing stress compared to photoperiod plants. The additional time needed for vegging in mainlining may not allow them time to fully recover from the stress.

Not Enough Benefits

Mainlining primarily increases cola production. Nevertheless, autoflowers naturally yield colas without training. The yield boost from mainlining may not be significant enough to justify the stress you put on autoflowering cannabis strains. 

How to Choose the Right Strains for Mainlining?

Here's a guide to choosing cannabis strains for mainlining along with factors to consider when selecting a strain.

Optimal Strains for Mainlining

While we can’t list all the strains that can be suitable for mainlining, here are some strain types that work best with a few examples. 

Sativa hybrids: These strains typically exhibit robust growth patterns and respond favorably to the enhanced light penetration facilitated by mainlining. Examples include Sour Diesel Haze, Amnesia Haze, and Green Crack.

Indica dominant hybrids: While certain pure Indicas may be bushier and less conducive to mainlining, Indica dominant hybrids can thrive using this technique. Varieties like Skywalker OG, Purple Kush Mints, and Dos Si Dos 33 strike a balance between size and yield potential.

Rapid growing strains: Given that mainlining prolongs growth, quicker maturing strains can help offset this and transition into flowering within a shorter timeframe. Examples include Durban Poison, Gorilla Glue, and Bruce Banner.

Factors to Consider:

When choosing the right strains that can handle mainlining, you should consider the following factors. 

Growth: Strains that are predominantly Sativa may exhibit a growth spurt in the early stages of growth. This method can be helpful here for creating a canopy with a stem but it may also require more careful management of vertical space.

Branching structure: Varieties with less branching will adapt well to central stem training and easily develop the multiple colas that this method aims to achieve.

Skill level: Beginners might find strains with some Indica characteristics easier to deal with because of their typically bushier growth and potentially simpler care compared to taller Sativas.

Helpful Suggestions:

• Before choosing a variety, research its growth traits, flowering period, and suitability for stem training.
• Make sure your plants are in good condition and resilient before starting stem training as they will need to recover from pruning and manipulation.
• If you're new to mainlining, start with one or two plants to gain experience before expanding your cultivation efforts.

By taking these factors into account and selecting the right strain, you can prepare yourself for an easy experience with mainlining and unlocking the potential for impressive yields from your cannabis plants. 

Summary: Mainlining Cannabis Plants: How Do You Do It?

Mainlining unlocks a world of possibilities for cannabis cultivators seeking to explode their yields. By strategically manipulating plants during veg, you can transform them from single-cola producers into multi-cola monsters.

There's a bit more patience required than standard growing, but the rewards are undeniable. You get massive yields, improved control of growth, and uniform plants. Just don’t forget the key to success: meticulous planning and execution. 

Ensure healthy plants and follow this guide closely. With practice and our tips, you'll be a mainlining master in no time, reaping the rewards of a bountiful harvest!