I've heard you most likely have to crop but don't take my word for it. Never had this problem.
As for the topping, lst, or FIM, I would recommend supercropping :)
.... and if not that, FIM if your capable
You can't really be expect some one else to make one of the most important decision for you :(
Go to some seed bank websites and search for seeds that might interest you (i.e. Outdoor seeds, maybe some that are adapted to northern climates)
Some good websites would be...
Just adding to what Kine Sensi said about why MJ requires more attention than your average weed.
It's greatly because over the years, MJ has been babied and interbred for potency, flavor, color and etc. rather than its ability to survive, as it would in nature.
By crossing strains in grow labs...
I live in cali too but have never heard of growing around winter. How does it work?
Is it cause the days are short so the plants just start flower?? with no veg??