Jimster
Supporter
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- 263
I leave all of my leaves on until I turn it back to 12/12. Prior to that, I try to stretch the branches out laterally to get more and larger bud sites, but only trim the leaves off that are keeping the light from getting to other bud sites. The fan leaves are the main energy producers and eliminating them will make your plant grow slower and not as dense. I trim only where it will benefit the smaller buds, but leave the bottom of the plant alone since it doesn't produce much and it stores nutrients that the plant can use...this is one reason the larger fan leaves on the bottom wilt and die, usually. I don't think trimming too much is beneficial, but everyone has their own "tricks", just most of them haven't been verified. Back in the 70s, it was a common belief that you had to damn near dry the plant to death to "stress" it, making it stronger/more potent. Most now agree that giving them everything they can handle is the best method. Do a little research and don't be afraid to experiment!