Topping is a technique used to maximize plant yield, improve plant structure, and promote uniform growth.
Steps to do this technique
- Wait for the right time: Before Topping, wait until the plant has developed at least 3 nodes. This development ensures that the plant is ready and can withstand pruning.
- Clean cut: Once the plant has at least 3 nodes, make a clean cut just above the third node. This cut will leave 3 pairs of branches on the plant.
- Expected Result: After pruning, 2 new branches will begin to grow just above the last 2 arms. These branches will grow in a more open shape, giving the plant a Y-shaped structure.
It’s important to to keep in mind that this process can cause stress to the plant, so it’s essential to do it with extreme care. The cutting must be clean and precise to minimize damage. If the plant get stressed, its production could be significantly affected.
Pros of Topping
- Increased production: By cutting the main tip of the plant, you encourage the growth of several lateral branches, increasing the number of buds and overall plant production.
- Better light distribution: By removing central growth, lateral branches can receive more light, improving photosynthesis and overall plant yield.
- Plant size control: Topping helps control the size and shape of the plant, which is useful for indoor growers looking to maximize available space.
Indoor Crops
Toppping optimizes space by allowing fewer plants with higher yields, although it requires more growth time. The number of prunings depends on the plant density per m²:
- 1 Plant: up to 10 prunings before flowering.
- 5 Plants: maximum 3 prunings per plant.
- 9 Plants: only 1 pruning per plant.
Outdoor Crops
This terchnique is ideal for preventing plants from growing too tall and attracting attention, resulting in shorter and discret plants. Pruning encourages the development of long branches, resulting in a wide, well-branched plant.
Each time a tip is cut, new branches sprout, temporarily halting vertical growth. As much pruning as possible should be done before flowering begins, maximizing the number of branches.
