I planted an apple whip this winter to train as an oblique single cordon, and followed guidelines for initial pruning of existing laterals. Now there is a new lateral just behind the leader, on the top side, that is growing much more vigorously than the leader. It is shading and crowding the leader, which doesn't seem to be growing out very fast in comparison. Should I cut off this lateral to stop the competition? Bend it down to the stake to turn it into the new leader? Or not worry about it overtaking the original leader -- just leave it and trim it down in July/August per the usual modified Lorette system? Thanks!
