I agree, I never ever cut a leaf anymore unless absolutely necessary. I have tried both, and had major plant problems when I trimmed fan leaves trying to get more light to buds. I FIRMLY believe the only leaves, even if a fan leave, has any discoloration, injury, or something that has changed the look of that leaf should be cut. Even lower branches I don't trim anymore, I put CFL's on the floor to keep the light on my bottom buds. I don't trim the tops of a plant, then let the rest grow out. I have tried this with three plants and didn't particulary enjoy the buds from the bottom of any. My 2 pennies!!