Topping in tobacco means:

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) Removal of terminal buds

Explanation:

• Topping is an essential cultural practice in tobacco cultivation.
• It involves the removal of the flower head (terminal bud) to prevent the plant from producing seeds.
• By removing the terminal bud, the plant diverts its energy and nutrients to the development of leaves.
• This results in larger, thicker, and higher-quality leaves with improved nicotine content.
• It is usually done when the flower head starts to emerge.

• 'Desuckering' is the practice that follows topping, which involves removing the side shoots (suckers) that grow from the leaf axils.
• Commonly grown tobacco types in India include Flue-Cured Virginia (FCV) and Bidi tobacco.

• This is called 'Desuckering'.