i do it. i prefer this method. once they open it gets everywhere. the pod will open and the bananas will drop. if you clip them before the flowers open that is perfect. i watch them closely and try to get them just before the bananas drop. if you keep an eye on it you will see it happen. they get white and swollen. it's not to hard you just have to keep on top of it. this is why i strip all side branches as just leave the top to work with. it can get out of hand very quickly. good luck i hope you do well.