Pruning mini apples

[Chrissie]

Hello - just a quick query about those mini spur apple trees sold by Parker's and the like: my new ones (planted in big pots last spring) have grown well and sent out one big side shoot each from low down which is now almost as big as the leader. Should I cut this off at pruning time or could I keep it and train the trees as narrow V-shaped fans? There is space to let them do this. I know the basic shape is up to me (life-size model of the Queen Mary?  ;)) but how would it affect fruiting?

Thanks!

[Chrissie]

[saddad]

Is it from above or below the graft?
If below it should be taken off as it's not the fruiting clone but the rootstock which will bear inferior fruit...  :-\

[Chrissie]

Thanks Saddad - no the shoot is from a couple of inches above the graft. Does that mean it would be OK to leave it?  ???

[saddad]

Yes... I'd still take the tip out when it's as tall as the other stem to stop it looking unbalanced..  :)

[Chrissie]

That's great, thanks.  :D