FIM

While topping produces two main branches from the cut site, FIM can produce three to eight new growth tips because the partial removal stimulates multiple meristems rather than just the two immediately below the cut. This makes FIM potentially more productive than topping for branch multiplication. However, the results are less predictable than topping: sometimes a FIM produces only two or three branches, while other times it generates six or more. The technique requires less precision than topping, as the cut does not need to be perfectly placed.

FIM is performed during vegetative growth, typically after the plant has developed three to five nodes. Use clean scissors or your fingertips to remove most of the newest growth tip at the top of the plant, leaving about 20% to 25% of the tip intact. The plant typically recovers faster than from topping since less tissue is removed. FIM can be combined with LST and other training methods. Like topping, FIM is generally not recommended for autoflowering strains because the recovery time can reduce final yields in their short lifecycle.