The real facts, nothing more nothing less. Take from this your own opinion.
*leaves are responsible for all the uptake of nutrients and water.
*leaves are responsible for "photoexitation", and carbon fixation.
*leaves are responsible for waste management, and CO2 intake.
*leaves are responsible for all the production of "photosynthate" (sugars).
*leaves are responsible for turning light energy into chemical energy, and where all the "energy" of the cannabis plant comes from.
*all leaves work as a collective in these processes, and combine all the energy collected, to better the plant as a whole.
*Removing leaves effects how much the plant can perform these functions.
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The reality of this is self-evident, and uncontestable.