To identify the optimum number and period for removing the field inapplicable fresh leaves, range analysis, variance analysis and comprehensive evaluation way of orthogonal experiment design method were employed to study the influence of different number of the removed field inapplicable fresh leaves and the period of removing on physical properties of upper leaves of flue-cured tobacco. The results showed that the number of the lower leaves removed was the key factor for the degree of leaf opening, thickness of leaf, balance water ratio and weight per unit leaf area of the upper leaves of flue-cured tobacco; the number of the removed lower leaves, the removing period for the lower leaves and the number of the removed top leaves were the key factors for the weight per leaf and stem ratio of the upper leaves of flue-cured tobacco. The optimal model for structure optimization of flue-cured tobacco in Shaoyang was removing 2 lower tobacco leaves at the time of tobacco topping and removing 1 top tobacco leaves at the time of the first roast from the bottom.