The only plants I’ve seen on the forums that appeared to produce well after heavy defol, were heavy indica Kush type strains. It’s something that may jncrease yield a bit with certain strains if done right. But for the average grower it seems unnecessary and usually harmful. If you really need that extra 10% yield or whatever and have the right situation then I’m sure it has its uses.
As for thinning out plants to reduce the number of bud sites, that’s SOP especially in a scrog. Or at least in my scrogs. Removing tangled growth, lower branches and ‘extra’ budsites in an overcrowded plant isn’t the same as removing fan leaves just because they are there. Yes it still slows the plant down, but is usually the lesser of two evils compared to growing a thicket.
As for thinning out plants to reduce the number of bud sites, that’s SOP especially in a scrog. Or at least in my scrogs. Removing tangled growth, lower branches and ‘extra’ budsites in an overcrowded plant isn’t the same as removing fan leaves just because they are there. Yes it still slows the plant down, but is usually the lesser of two evils compared to growing a thicket.