When to Lollipop Cannabis Plants for Maximum Yield

Lollipopping is a very good way for cannabis growers to prune their plants to increase yields and improve the quality of the buds. It involves cutting back lower growth in a planned way so that the plant’s energy goes toward making dense, strong flowers on the upper branches. Figuring out the best time to lollipop is important for getting the most out of it. This complete guide looks at when to lollipop cannabis plants based on what kind they are and what stage they are in.

What is Lollipopping?

Lollipopping also known as under-cropping, is the process of pruning the lower one-third of branches and leaves of a cannabis plant. It creates a lollipop-like shape with most foliage concentrated at the top. Lollipopping serves several purposes

• Moves the plant’s energy to the top buds instead of the lower, shaded areas that aren’t producing much. This results in fatter denser flowers.

• Improves light exposure and air circulation through the middle and lower sections of the plant.

• Prevents issues like mold, mildew, and bud rot by removing dense undergrowth with poor airflow.

• Makes watering and fertilizing more accessible.

• Reduces trimming time by removing lower branches unlikely to produce sizable buds.

When to Lollipop Photoperiod Plants

For cannabis strains that grow during the day, lollipops are usually done in the third week of the flowering stage. This time coincides with the start of the flowering stretch, a period of fast vertical growth.

Starting the process during this time allows adequate pruning of the lower foliage before significant bud production begins higher up. It also minimizes stress on the plant.

Here are some guidelines for lollipopping photoperiod cannabis:

• Start inspecting plants around day 14-21 of the flowering period as stretching tapers off.

• Identify branches that aren’t getting enough light or air circulation. Remove branches with minimal bud sites.

• Prune about one-third of the plant’s height, retaining just the top nodes with the most potential.

• Leave 3-6 nodes per branch, focusing on upper growth. Remove fan leaves shading bud sites.

• Avoid excessive defoliation. Take a conservative approach, leaving some foliage for recovery.

• Finish lollipopping within 3-4 weeks of the flip to flowering at the latest.

When to Lollipop Autoflowering Plants

For autoflowering strains, the best time to lollipop is during the vegetative stage, before flowering begins. Autoflowers have a short lifespan and don’t respond well to high stress levels during flowering.

Here are some tips for lollipopping autoflowers:

• Start pruning by the third week of vegetative growth once secondary branching develops.

• Gradually remove lower leaves and nodes over 1-2 weeks. Take off a little foliage at a time.

• Leave just 2-4 nodes on secondary branches to avoid stunting plants.

• Avoid pruning more than 25% of growth at once. Allow recovery between sessions.

• Finish lollipopping before flowering starts, typically around 4 weeks old.

Step-by-Step Lollipopping Process

Follow these steps for effective lollipopping:

1. Assess the plant’s structure and growth patterns. Identify areas getting insufficient light.

2. Remove large fan leaves shading potential bud sites using sterile pruners.

3. Prune lower branches with low productivity. Prioritize upper cola sites.

4. Cut secondary branches down to 2-6 nodes, depending on size. Remove growth below top third.

5. Defoliate conservatively, taking no more than 25% foliage at once.

6. Allow 1-3 days recovery before further pruning. Repeat until desired shape is achieved.

7. Avoid excessive stress. Leave some leaves for photosynthesis and energy.

8. Give extra nitrogen for recovery after lollipopping.

9. Resume regular care, observing plant health. Refine as needed through early flowering.

Lollipopping Tips

• Sterilize pruners before each session to prevent spreading disease.

• Start at the bottom, working upwards for a systematic approach.

• Time lollipopping just before or after switching to the flowering light cycle.

• Remove leaves and nodes entirely – don’t leave stubs which can invite pests/mold.

• Monitor humidity levels after lollipopping and improve airflow if needed.

• Use trellising to support and train upper growth after clearing lower foliage.

• Avoid lollipopping late in flowering or removing over 50% of leaves at once.

Benefits of Proper Lollipopping

When timed correctly, lollipopping offers numerous advantages:

• Redirects energy and nutrients to upper buds, increasing their size and density.

• Optimizes light interception for top cola sites, boosting quality.

• Improves air circulation and reduces humidity in the lower canopy.

• Lessens risks of mold, mildew, rot, and pests on concealed growth.

• Allows more access for watering, feeding, and monitoring overall health.

• Significantly reduces trimming time after harvest by removing lower buds.

• Generates more visually appealing, symmetrical plants with focused flowers.

By understanding the ideal timing and technique for lollipopping cannabis, you can maximize its benefits in your grow. While an art and science, perfecting this pruning method can meaningfully boost yields and potency.