Cheeky Taragon Conservatory

Plants are settling in the Autopot, big ass fan leaves are blocking the light for the lower branches. Pink Lemonade 4 (Queen) was topped a week ago. It's 23 cm tall, other one is 18 cm. We are thrips in the recycled soil. Multiple diatomaceous earth, neem oil application have not been sufficient to eradiate the eggs. Might have to get insecticidal soap before flipping to bloom. Had same issue for the last couple grows, went with a massive defoliation, multiple foliar sprays with aloe vera, epsom salt, h20, lactobacillus to try to clean and wash the leaves.