The bud at the canopy looks like it might be about ready to harvest, but bud sites at the bottom of the plant are still premature.
I’m sure this is because the bud at the bottom gets much less light than the top.
Can I chop the top of the plant off and let the bottom continue to flower?
This is my first plant. How do I know when the buds are actually ready to harvest?
Merry Christmas!
Yes. It is called a staged harvest.
As @MidwestGuy stated a stage is ok. I do it a lot. 2 -3 weeks more on bottom for ripening. Remember this, half the plant and all the roots. 1 feed in middle of the timeframe will be all that is needed.Just make sure the top is truly ready. If no microscope or solid way to check trichs go with 80-100% brown and receding pistils. Old style.
I always stage my harvests…spreads out the trim too.
How long has your plant been in flower? She looks like she’s has more time to go. 
