Hello B Well pinching/topping, firstly there is no need to do it if you don't fancy it on you're first grow

I think the general rule is don't pinch untill there are at least five nodes. I usually have about five or six nodes on mine when I just pinch the new growth off between my finger nails and I only do it on the top as well....................to be honest I've never tried doing the sides.
For me it depends on the size of the plant to determine when I pinch because I like to end up with plants about a yard/metre in height at harvest time. So when they look about right I just nip the top off and then start inducing about five days later.


Also B if/when you pinch them for the first time I would suggest using a small pair of sharp sisscors to do it with being very carefull not to take off any of the diagonal sprouts were the new stems are going to grow from ..........................very important that


However B you don't have to pinch them, it's just down to personal preference


love mand xxx