If you are new to growing cannabis and want to learn how to increase your yields and create a stronger plant, then you have come to the right place! In the early stages of cannabis growth, it is recommended to top your plants for a stronger structure, larger yield and to have more colas.
What is topping cannabis?
Topping a cannabis plant is a common technique used by growers to encourage bushier growth and increase the number of main colas (the flowering tops of the plant). This process involves cutting the main stem of the plant, which redirects its energy into the lower branches, resulting in a more even canopy and potentially higher yields.
Benefits of Topping
Increased Yield: By encouraging the plant to grow multiple colas, topping can lead to a higher overall yield compared to a single main cola.
Better Light Penetration: A bushier plant allows for better light distribution across the canopy, improving the growth of lower branches.
Controlled Height: Topping helps manage the plant's height, which is particularly useful for indoor growers with limited vertical space.
Stronger Structure: The plant develops a sturdier, more even structure that can support more buds.
How Topping Works
Apical Dominance: The plant's apical dominance is disrupted. Apical dominance is the phenomenon where the main stem inhibits the growth of side branches. By cutting the main stem, you remove this dominance.
Hormonal Changes: Topping causes a redistribution of hormones (auxins) in the plant. Auxins are concentrated in the main stem, move to the side branches when the main stem is cut, stimulating their growth.
New Growth Points: The plant redirects its energy to the nodes (where the leaves meet the stem) below the cut, resulting in two new main colas forming at the site of the cut.
When to Top
Vegetative Stage: Topping should be done during the vegetative stage, not during flowering. This allows the plant to recover and develop new growth before it starts to produce flowers.
Optimal Size: It's best to top when the plant has developed at least 4-6 nodes. This ensures the plant is robust enough to handle the stress of topping and has enough lower growth to support the development of new colas.
How to Top
Vegetative Stage: Topping should be done during the vegetative stage, not during flowering. This allows the plant to recover and develop new growth before it starts to produce flowers.
Optimal Size: It's best to top when the plant has developed at least 4-6 nodes. This ensures the plant is robust enough to handle the stress of topping and has enough lower to growth to support the development of new colas.
How to Top a Cannabis Plant?
Preparation: Make sure your plant is healthy and well watered. Ensure you use clean, sterilized scissors or pruning shears to prevent infection.
Identify the Topping Point: Locate the main stem and identify a node where you will make the cut. Ensure the cut is made just above the node to encourage lateral growth.
Making the Cut: Cut the main stem cleanly just above the chosen node. Be careful to avoid damaging the surrounding leaves and branches.
Post-Topping Care: Monitor the plant for stress signs, such as drooling or slowed growth, which should be temporary. Provide adequate nutrients and water to help the plant recover and thrive.
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