Looks good so far. Every plant is different even if the same strain.
This variable is caused by different factors such as stress, variances in phenotype, soil ph, quality of drainage, etc.
I water based upon need not schedule.
Roots need plenty of oxygen to breathe, and without it you might see drops in yields, quality and risk diseases.
You only need to add enough to get the soil moist. I've found that 2L per 5 gal of soil is a pretty solid starting point to get that feel on how thirsty each girl is. Then it's easily adjusted from there to optimal levels.
Only water when the soil dries out. To test, poke a finger about an inch into the soil. Feel moist? If yes, wait to water/feed.
Even easier if you use fabric pots. Then all you have to do is feel the outside bottom of the bases.
Also, I've never grown autos before, but I do know that the dark period is where plants love to stretch and grow, especially during the first 2-4 weeks of flower... by dropping it completely, that might not be the best for overall plant health and production. I hear 18/6 is about perfect for most autos. Maybe someone with experience can correct me if I'm wrong.
As far as defoliation... you'll find many different theories and techniques.
Me personally, I defoliate slowly during veg, to reduce stress and shock.
I follow the "look up through the canopy rule". If you can see light looking up through the bottom, that means those beams are wasted.
Fan leaves are like solar panels for the plant. The more you have the more energy the plant produces. I only remove leaves I can't tuck or move to expose bud sites.
Hope this information helps. #1 noob mistake is over watering. It's still early, let the heavy pot dry out. Your doing good, paying attention, making observations and asking the right questions. Plus your enthusiasm is top notch π.
Good luck bro.
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