Topping vs. trimming: What is the distinction?

The boundary between topping and trimming can be somewhat unclear. Topping entails removing the central stem of a marijuana plant to encourage it to grow more densely, which will enable it to produce more and remain robust. Trimming involves cutting away cannabis leaves and branches that are lifeless or won’t get adequate light, allowing a marijuana plant to concentrate its efforts on developing buds in other locations. The distinction between the two is blurred because often cultivators implement both simultaneously. Here are the differences between the two. transform your routine with our exceptional Weed Delivery service order now and relax!

Why is topping cannabis necessary?

Though it may appear odd to remove and discard part of your weed plants, topping is crucial for maintaining your cannabis plants’ vitality and achieving excellent yields. If allowed to develop by itself, a cannabis plant will grow upwards, directing its energy towards one primary stem. The outcome will be one large bud at the peak with smaller buds along the main stem. These additional buds will be minor and airy, resulting in inferior quality. The overall size and yield of the plant will be minimal. Topping occurs during the vegetative phase to assist in redistributing growth hormones from the primary stem to lateral branches—by cutting away the central stem, the plant will redirect its energy towards side branches, encouraging them to grow outward rather than upward. Topping creates a bushier cannabis plant.

When to top cannabis plants

Wait until the plant has developed six or seven nodes to perform the initial topping, which typically occurs just above the5th node. It is vital to wait until the plant has reached this stage for it to endure the stress of topping. If you delay topping a cannabis plant after it has formed more than seven nodes, the plant may have been channeling energy into vertical growth, which you will then cut away instead of focusing on horizontal growth that you intend to preserve.

How a cannabis plant receives light

A bushy form permits light to reach all branches more evenly—because the cannabis plant is broad rather than tall, all bud locations will receive an equivalent amount of light. With a single vertical stem, the primary bud will receive ample light, but the lower branches will be overshadowed by the main bud, resulting in airy buds below. With a bushier shape, you’ll obtain more buds, and they’ll be of superior quality. Eventually, these side branches can also be topped, which will generate even more side branches and lead the plant to become bushier. Engaging in this practice will also create additional bud locations on branches and consequently enhance your yields. Generally, a plant will be topped1-3 times during its lifespan.

Does topping cannabis plants increase yields?

By topping, a plant will adopt a bushier form, which will permit more light to reach a greater number of areas of the plant. Without topping, you’ll only obtain a few sizable buds at the very top of the plant, while the rest will be shaded out.

How to top cannabis plants

Topping cannabis is most effective when a plant is robust and mature enough to endure significant changes. For the initial topping—removing the main stem—a good rule of thumb is to trim the plant just above the5th node. This will yield sufficient side branches on the remaining part of the plant for it to expand properly. For subsequent toppings on the same cannabis plant, cut each side branch above the second or third node, to allow the plant to continue to expand as needed. These toppings are more subjective however, and will depend on how much you want the plant to bush out and how large you wish the final plant to be. To top cannabis plants:

1. Get your equipment and sanitize. You’ll need either a pair of trimming scissors or a razor blade. The sharper the better—you want to create one clear cut. The tool should be disinfected with rubbing alcohol to help prevent infections in the plant (this is very rare, but it doesn’t hurt to be cautious).
2. Decide where to make your cut. Identify the5th node on the main stem, and cut above it.
3. Wait and observe. Topping can be taxing for the plant, so monitor it for a couple of days and ensure it receives ample water and light. If you plan to top again, allow the plant a couple of weeks to recuperate from the first topping.

Topping vs. fimming

The contrast between topping and fimming is simply the location of where you cut the plant—with fimming, you’ll remove the upper half of the new growth (refer to image above). Topping may yield two new stems from where you cut, whereas fimming might yield3-8 new stems. Whichever method you select, you’ll notice an increase in yields. If you aren’t certain which approach works best for you, experiment with both and observe which you favor.

How to fim a cannabis plant

The fimming technique is effective for cannabis cultivators in compact spaces who aim to optimize yields. However, fimmed plants will require more structural support, so exercise additional care in trellising your garden. Topped plants are more stable and possess a stronger branch structure, needing less support.

How to trim cannabis plants

To trim cannabis plants: Grab a pair of trimming shears, usually some Chikamasas or Fiskars for efficient work on small branches and leaves. Also, have another pair with greater strength available to cut larger branches. Keep your clippers/scissors sharp and make clean cuts—this will keep the plant healthy and avoid infection and injury. Quality buds flourish where the plant gets ample sunlight and airflow, especially at the top of the plant. You’ll want to:

1. Remove large branches first. This will allow you to clear out space before you commence the detailed work. Start with branches located at the bottom of the plant. These won’t receive enough sunlight and will never become completely developed buds.
2. Cut off branches that will get overshadowed. This can include branches in the middle of the plant or others that won’t get light, depending on your layout and if you use a trellis or scrog.
3. Trim any small or dying branches or foliage.

What to do after trimming or topping your plants

Trimming, and especially topping, can be somewhat shocking for a plant. In the days following a trimming or topping, ensure your plants receive plenty of light and water. They should show a surge in growth—the newly available space will allow extra light to reach the plant.