Why are some large-leaf tobacco plants topped after flowering?

Large-leaf tobacco plants are topped—meaning the terminal growth is removed—at or shortly after flowering to improve the quality and quantity of the harvest. By removing the top of the plant, the grower redirects the plant's energy away from seed production and toward the development of the remaining leaves.

Following this process, lateral shoots known as suckers are also removed, either by hand or through the application of chemicals, to further encourage leaf growth and increase overall yields. The specific number of leaves left on the plant after topping varies by type, typically ranging from 10 to 20 leaves depending on whether the variety is intended for air-cured, fire-cured, or cigar production.1