Fri starts wk9 ~ My first grow ~ 3x3 Mars Hydro. I think it’s time to defoliate and prepare for flip but I want to make sure. The one in front I’ve had to train in a circle, it’s strange. I have no experience yet with the stretch that’s coming.
Once you flip, defoliate for the last main time 2 to 3 weeks after light change. The plants will double to triple in size upon stretching. So your gonna likely get crowded in there.
Defoliate a week before the flip or directly after will make the deal for you, so you can ensure the stress and stagnation is not hurting the stretch. You could add nitrogen for the flip the top is a bit light, probably not enough grow nutrient or slightly off pH
I think your safe to flip, though to an extent that depends on how powerful your light is. If you have a really penitrating light you could maybe let it veg another week or two. No need to defol at the moment. Reevaluate after your stretch.