CAN I DEFOLIATE A BIT GOING INTO WEEK 5 ?

U have to look at the leaves like solar panels driving energy directly above. A booster. Trim reshape poke. Do what ever u can to get the best spread of light cross the whole crop but don't go daft.

Hey fella, they look fine, defoliation is good to an extent, as sir_iso said try to take the less is more approach, defoliation crept in many years ago when lights didn't have the penetration they do now, if you really want to defoliate then maybe lollipop them give them a couple of weeks then see what large fan leaves are blocking prime bud sites hope this helps happy growing 👍

I reckon so, maybe though try to not remove two leaves from the same node where possible?