When Is the Right Time to Top Cannabis?

The optimal time to top your cannabis plant is after the 6th node appears. A node is where a pair of branches and leaves grow at 90-degree angles from each other. When your plant has 5 fully formed nodes and the 6th is still growing upwards, it's time to top. This typically takes about 4 to 5 weeks from germination.

Transplant BEFORE Topping

It's crucial to transplant your cannabis plants from BudCups to BudPots before topping. This reduces stress during both processes and allows your plant to develop larger side branches after topping.

NEVER Top During Flower

The flowering stage is dedicated to bud production, not branch growth. Topping during flower reduces bud yield and increases the risk of your plant becoming a hermaphrodite. Always top your plants at least 5 days before switching them to the flowering stage.

For detailed guidance, read our full lesson on When & How to Top Hemp Plants.