Node
Definition: A node is the point on a cannabis stem where leaves, branches and eventually flowers emerge. Each node holds one or two leaves, a growing tip in each leaf axil and small spiky stipules. Nodes are where growers look for pre-flowers, make topping cuts and take cuttings, so recognizing them is a basic grow skill.
How Node works
Look at a young cannabis plant and you will see leaves arranged in pairs directly across from each other. Each pairing point is a node. As the plant matures and nears flowering, the arrangement often shifts so leaves alternate up the stem, one per node. That shift is a sign of sexual maturity.
Why nodes matter
- Branching: the tiny bud in each leaf axil can become a full branch. More nodes mean more potential bud sites.
- Sexing: pre-flowers appear at nodes, usually the upper ones first.
- Topping and pruning: cutting just above a node turns that node’s two growth tips into new main stems. See topping.
- Cloning: roots form readily from tissue near a node, so cuttings include at least one node below the surface of the rooting medium.
Node spacing
The distance between nodes, the internode, tells you a lot. Tight spacing of 1 to 2 inches usually means strong light and compact genetics, producing dense, stacked buds. Long gaps of 4 inches or more point to weak light, heat or sativa-leaning genetics. Many growers count nodes rather than days to time training, and topping above the third to fifth node is a common choice.