Trimming side-shoots?

I have 2 plants in their second year, one cascade and one nugget. Right now they are both growing side shoots about 1.5-2 ft long and I've just been wrapping them around the string the main bines are on. I'm wondering if they should just be trimmed off though, because I dont want them to be too thick and not get air circulation or block out too much sun. Heres a picture so you can see them.



Cascade is on the right and Nugget on the left.

Eric

I believe the sidearms produce the flowers, so cutting them off would be a bad idea.

Let the plant do what it's designed to do. It's supposed to have side arms.

Ok. Thanks guys! Should I keep training the side shoots to grow around the string or just let them hang? Im worried about mildew if theyre touching the ground.

Eric

I typically trim off all leaves and side shoots up to 1 yard above the ground then let the rest grow wild. This will keep the disease risk down.

cheers,