Tobacco topping and axillary bud control (on)
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September 26 11:06:30, 2025
After the initial growth stage of tobacco plants, a significant portion of the nutrients in the leaves is redirected toward reproductive structures, which naturally leads to a reduction in both yield and quality of the harvested leaves. To counteract this, topping—removing the growing tip of the plant—is essential during the later growth phase. Once topped, the apical dominance is removed, allowing axillary buds to develop rapidly. These buds have the potential to flower and grow vigorously. If left unchecked, they will consume valuable nutrients from the leaves, further reducing the quality and quantity of the final product. Therefore, it's crucial to promptly remove these buds after topping to maintain optimal leaf development.
During the topping process, several factors must be considered, such as the terrain, soil depth, fertility level, nitrogen application rates, and irrigation conditions in the growing area. It's important to determine the appropriate time for topping and the number of leaves to leave on each plant. The upper leaves should be developed to match or slightly smaller than the middle leaves in size, ensuring high-quality and usable upper leaves.
There are different methods of topping, depending on the stage of bud development:
1. **Early Topping (Bud Removal):** When the bud is still enclosed within the top leaf, carefully open the leaves using tweezers or small bamboo sticks to remove the bud. This method is done early, minimizes nutrient loss, but can cause thickened stems and poor internode elongation. It’s typically used in areas with poor soil fertility, insufficient fertilization, or excessive rainfall that leaches nutrients away.
2. **Budding Topping:** When the buds are 4–6 cm long and clearly separated from the young leaves, the buds along with their lower 2–3 leaflets (called mosaics) are removed. This method is performed at an earlier stage, reduces nutrient consumption, promotes even stem growth, and is widely used in commercial production due to its efficiency and effectiveness.
3. **Initial Flowering Topping:** When the top inflorescence begins to emerge and a few flowers open, the entire inflorescence along with its lower 2–3 leaflets is removed. This method is applied later, consumes more nutrients, and is suitable for well-fertilized fields. It helps balance nutrient distribution and supports better leaf development.
4. **Full Flower Topping:** When the inflorescence is fully open and many flowers have bloomed, the entire structure is removed along with the lower 2–3 leaflets. This is the latest method, leading to greater nutrient loss and difficulty in removing the hardened main stem. It is used when there is excess nitrogen or prolonged drought, where the plant cannot fully absorb nutrients. The goal is to allow the flowers to consume excess nitrogen, helping the leaves mature properly without over-accumulation.
Each topping method has its own advantages and limitations, and the choice depends on the specific growing conditions and objectives of the farmer. Proper timing and technique are essential to maximize yield, improve quality, and ensure healthy plant development.