Hello take2hikes;

I have not been around here for awhile, but this AM for some reason I logged in and started going thru new posts, saw this thread. Since you haven't had any responces thought I'd give it a push start.:thumbsup:

First let me appoligize to you if you read thread thru that old thread of mine, it like most I started welcomed and encourgeged off topic subjects etc..........only because it seemed to be a rule here to stay on topic. Looking back at that old thread this morning did make me laugh. And so second, thanks for that t2h.

Selecting a mother is really based on what the grower wants; depending on style of grow, lights used, etc. But hopefully it includes also good representitive taste, effectiveness, structure, etc.

As to your question about the LH and internode spacing. IMHO the 25% shorter, stockier plant might hold more interest to me. That assumes that at finish they are equal in quality. One of the reasons in my selection process that I let a plant veg then flower to finish, with minimal interference from me, is to see how it reacts at those stages. You are correct about stem size, a thicker stem shows a heartier base plant...but a "perfect" plant with a weak genetic stem can be corrrected thru the use of silica.

Increased node spacing usually equals more branching and more bud sites. If you are used to growing 4' shrubs, then the opportunity exists to create a 3' bush with better density and possible better finished wgt.
But here is something else to consider, you can decrease (and increase) internode spacing thru the use of certian supplemental lighting.

Hope some others weigh in (?) with their thoughts about this. Thanks again take2hikes.

OM