It’s important to know when to top your cannabis plants for optimal growth . Here are some tips to help you achieve success.
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Introduction
Topping is a common cannabis plant training technique that refers to the intentional removal of the growing tip of the main stem. This action encourages the growth of two new shoots (side branches) in its place, resulting in a bushier plant with more main colas (central stems with buds). The general rule of thumb is to top cannabis plants once they have developed 4-5 nodes (sets of leaves) on their main stem.
The vegetative stage
Topping is a technique that’s used to control the shape and size of cannabis plants. It’s done by cutting off the growing tip of the main stem, which causes the plant to branch out. Topping also helps to even out the canopy, so all the buds get an equal amount of light.
Most growers top their plants during the vegetative stage, when they are young and still growing. Topping young plants is easier because they are more resilient and can recover quickly. It’s also best to top plants before they get too big, so they don’t get too wild and out of control.
There are a few things to keep in mind when topping your plants:
-Topping your plants will slow their growth for a few days while they recover.
-Topping too early or too late in the vegetative stage can cause stunted growth or abnormal branching.
-Topping too many times can result in a plant that is poorly shaped and has weak branches.
-Not all cannabis strains respond well to topping, so it’s best to do some research before you start.
The flowering stage
The flowering stage is the final stage of a cannabis plant’s life cycle. It’s when the plant produces its buds, which are concentrated sources of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (cannabidiol), and other cannabinoids.
The length of the flowering stage depends on the strain of cannabis, but it typically lasts between 6 and 8 weeks. During this time, you should avoid topping your plants so that they can focus their energy on developing buds.
Topping your cannabis plants during the flowering stage can result in smaller buds, so it’s best to wait until the plant has transition into the flowering stage before you start topping.
The ripening stage
During the ripening stage, which typically begins about 2-3 weeks before harvest, you will want to stop topping your plants. If you continue to top them during this stage, you will actually be slowing down the ripening process as the plant will be focusing its energy on growing new buds rather than ripening the ones it already has.
Conclusion
Topping your cannabis plants is a great way to encourage them to grow wider instead of taller. This will result in more even growth and bigger yields come harvest time. While topping is typically done during the vegetative stage, it can also be done during the early flowering stage with good results. Just be sure not to top too late in the flowering stage, as this can cause your plants to produce less buds overall.
