Plant response to topping and pruning

[JimG]

I have reviewed and used various training, pruning and topping techniques. My question focuses on the plant's growth response to other parts of the plant when the apical bud is topped and likewise when the secondary branches are topped.

 

[Ckbrew]

After the first topping they slow down a bit, not so much when the side branches are removed. The apical buds control the hormones in the plant, mostly from the highest bud. That is what you are removing so it kind of shocks the plant but it also stimulates new growth. I give a full watering before cutting anything anywhere on the plant.