Dec 10, 2024

Removing hemp awnings: when and how it makes sense

Hanf-Sonnensegel entfernen: Wann und wie es sinnvoll ist

Niklas Bergmann, M.A.

Biochemist, specialist author

Inhaltsverzeichnis: Removing hemp awnings: when and how it makes sense

The role of awnings: why they are indispensable
Pros and cons: Should hemp shade sails be removed?
When is the right time to remove awnings ?
How to remove awnings correctly? A step-by-step guide
Differences in canopy removal between indica, sativa and hybrid strains
Common mistakes when removing awnings - and how to avoid them

Hemp sails are the large, fan-like leaves that play a key role in the life of the plant. They are true power stations, as they capture light and carry out photosynthesis, enabling the plant to generate energy and grow.

However, these awnings often cause discussions, especially in hemp cultivation: Should they be removed or not? The arguments are manifold. On the one hand, they sometimes block the light for lower-lying Flowers or branches, which can hinder growth. On the other hand, they are essential for the health of the plant and provide important nutrients.

In this blog, we take a look at when and why it might make sense to remove the awnings - and when it's better to keep your hands off them.

The role of awnings: why they are indispensable

Hemp sun sails play a central role in plant growth: they are the main players in photosynthesis. With the help of sunlight, these large, fan-shaped leaves convert water and carbon dioxide into energy - the basis of the plant's life. This energy is needed for growth, the development of Flowers and the general health of the plant.

In addition to photosynthesis, solar sails also store nutrients that can be released to the plant during critical phases, such as Flower. They act like reserve tanks that ensure that the plant has enough energy available even in stressful times.

In addition, awnings regulate evaporation and protect the plant from overheating. They are like a natural air conditioning system that ensures that the plant remains in optimum condition.

Their importance therefore goes far beyond simply "capturing light" - they are essential for the overall growth dynamics of the hemp plant. But it is precisely this role that makes the decision to remove them so complicated and requires careful consideration.

Pros and cons: Should hemp shade sails be removed?

The removal of awnings is a controversial topic among hemp growers. While some swear by the benefits, others warn of possible negative consequences. Here is an overview of the most important arguments:

Vorteile

Improved light penetration:
Large awnings can block the light that is important for lower lying Flowers and branches. If they are removed, the lower parts of the plant also receive more light, which promotes growth and can lead to better flower formation.
Better air circulation:
Dense leaf growth can hinder air circulation, which increases the risk of mould and disease. Removing the awnings creates more space so that the plant can "breathe".

Nachteile

Loss of energy sources:
Solar sails are the plant's most important energy producers. Removing them means that less photosynthesis is carried out, which could slow down growth or weaken the plant.
Increased stress for the plant:
Removing leaves is a stressful situation for any plant. If done incorrectly or too frequently, this can impair the development of the plant and lead to a smaller harvest.

When is the right time to remove awnings ?

Timing plays a crucial role when it comes to removing awnings. If the procedure is carried out at the wrong time, it can stress the plant and impair its growth. Here are the optimal times:

During the growth phase (vegetative phase)

During this phase, the plant concentrates on growing large and strong. Sun sails provide the energy needed for this and should therefore only be removed sparingly.

When does it make sense?
- If individual leaves are damaged, yellowed or diseased.
- To create space for training the plant (e.g. LST or topping).

During the flowering phase

In the flowering phase, the removal of awnings is particularly controversial, as the plant concentrates its energy on flower formation. However, targeted interventions can help:

Early flowering stage:
- Remove awnings that cover the flower bases. This distributes the light more evenly.
- Important: Do not remove too many leaves at once so as not to stress the plant.
Late flowering stage:
- Only remove leaves that cast a clear shadow on the mature Flowers or die off naturally.

General rule of thumb

Healthy measure: Remove a maximum of 20-30% of the awnings at a time so as not to overtax the plant.
Pflanzenbeobachtung: Pay attention to the plant's reaction. Does it show symptoms of stress such as drooping leaves or slower growth? Then caution is advised.

The aim is to utilise the benefits of removal without unnecessarily stressing the plant. Patience and a close look at the condition of the plant are the key to a successful procedure.

Sonnensegel abschneiden mit einer Schere

How to remove awnings correctly? A step-by-step guide

Removing awnings requires care and the right technique to prevent damage to the plant. With this step-by-step guide, you can ensure that the procedure is carried out effectively and gently.

Step 1: Prepare the plant

Select time:
- The best time is in the morning or shortly after the lighting phase, when the plant has stored less water in its leaves.
Check environment:
- Make sure your hands and tools are clean to protect the plant from germs or infection.

Step 2: Use the right tool

Tool selection:
- Use sharp and disinfected secateurs or sharp scissors.
Why hot?
- A clean cut minimises stress for the plant and prevents bruising or cracks.
Desinfektion:
- Clean the tool with alcohol before and after cutting to prevent the spread of diseases.

Step 3: Work purposefully

Select sheets:
- Only remove awnings that:
  - Clearly block light for Flowers or shoots.
  - are sick, damaged or yellowed.
- Leave as many healthy sun sails as possible to maintain photosynthesis.
Proceed gently:
- Hold the leaf close to the base and cut it off carefully so as not to damage the stem.

Step 4: After removing observe

Check the reactions of the plant:
- Observe how the plant reacts over the next few days.
- Symptoms such as drooping leaves or slowed growth can be a sign of stress - in this case, do not carry out any further interventions.
Check interfaces:
- Keep the interfaces dry and clean to prevent mould or infection.

Additional tips for optimum results

Never remove more than 20-30% of the awnings at once.
Work with a clear plan: proceed step by step instead of randomly removing leaves.
Be careful not to cut near Flowers to avoid damaging the valuable yields.

With patience and the right technique, you can optimally support your plant and promote healthy growth - without unnecessary stress.

Differences in canopy removal between indica, sativa and hybrid strains

Merkmale	Indica-dominant varieties	Sativa-dominant varieties	Hybrid varieties
Wuchsform	Compact, bushy	Tall, slim	Variable (depending on indica/sativa dominance)
Blattstruktur	Large, broad leaves, dense leaf growth	Narrow, elongated leaves, fewer leaves	Mixture of broad and narrow leaves
Herausforderungen	Dense leaves block light and air	Fewer leaves = higher risk due to removal	Unpredictable growth, requires adaptation
Empfehlung	- Remove awnings to improve light and air circulation. - Do not thin out too much.	- Only remove awnings if they cast a lot of shade. - Focus on upper Flowers.	- Adapt measures to the dominant property. - Observe individual growth.
Risiken	Increased risk of mould without thinning	Energy loss due to excessive removal	Unclear influence, as hybrids react differently.

Common mistakes when removing awnings - and how to avoid them

Removing awnings can bring benefits, but mistakes in implementation can jeopardise the health and growth of the plant. Here are two common mistakes growers should avoid:

1. remove too many leaves at once

Why is that a problem?
- Solar sails are the main source of energy production through photosynthesis. If too many leaves are removed at once, the plant loses its ability to generate sufficient energy.
- Excessive removal can severely stress the plant, which can lead to slower growth or lower flower production.
How to avoid the error?
- Remove a maximum of 20-30% of the awnings in a single session.
- After each removal, give the plant a few days to recover before removing more leaves.

2. removal of leaves too early in the growth phase

Why is that a problem?
- In the vegetative phase, hemp plants are actively growing, and shade sails are essential to provide the energy for this growth. Premature intervention can slow down growth and weaken the plant.
- Young plants also need their awnings to protect them from environmental influences such as excessive heat or strong light.
How to avoid the error?
- Only remove awnings in the vegetative phase if they are diseased, damaged or dead.
- Wait until the early flowering phase to make any major interventions, as the plant has then stabilised its structure.

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Fachautor und Biochemier Niklas Bergmann

Niklas Bergmann, Fachautor

Freut euch auf die Insights von unserem Biochemiker Niklas Bergmann! Mit seinem tiefen Verständnis für alles, was mit Hanf zu tun hat, liefert er euch die neuesten und coolsten Infos direkt in euer Feed. Schnörkellos und klar verpackt er das komplexe Thema Cannabinoide und macht es für euch easy zugänglich. Mit Niklas an der Spitze unseres Wissens-Teams seid ihr immer top informiert.