IMHO the safest approach to summertime towering cumulus is to stay VMC. On top- is best if the air is not electrically charged -- if not able-- go down to 3000 feet-- below the bases (VMC) (check terrain clearance)-- and always be vigilant for lightning and hail on the downwind side--
yes--stay out of the green (if only to protect your paint).

And in regards to diversions-- go early when the heading corrections are 10 to 20°. Not when you're in a box canyon and you need a 90° to a 180° course change. You'll notice that large holes and openings from 100 miles out will close up by the time you get there. And it would've been better to take that 20° heading cut to go around the up wind side before you got there. Saves time too.