should anchor the base of the LST to other side, this way it doesn't tug on roots and gives a little space between substrate and stem. Don't want that constantly wet and tougher to water too.
Definitely wait a bit longer to lst. Work backward from a canopy you want. How many colas per plant? This will keep you honest and not end up with an overcrowded canopy. branches below the initial bend will always suffer, even if you manage to keep them the same height (apical dominance). They'll still be inferior to similar stature branching, so just remove them.