Pruning during veg

Since you are growing outside and need to keep them short, topping them or training (best option with autos) would both work to keep them below fence height, but I would advise against defoliating, especially during flowering, as this is exactly when they need maximum energy to grow their biggest and best flowers. Just remember, - Less leaves = less energy being made = less flower growth. Actually, snce they are autos, you shouldn't have any problems keeping them below fence height, they rarely grow that tall outdoors, so I would be inclined to just let them do their thing with minimal interference. Hope this helps, Organoman.