The best time to prune is the fall, but early spring/late winter is fine too unless a storm does damage then prune at that time.

Here is a link that might be useful: Propagating Perennials

Actually, young trees should be allowed to keep their lower foliage in order to build healthy root systems and stocky trunks. You can remove crossing or inward growing branches from the upper canopy....the sooner the better.

Newly planted trees really need all of their healthy foliage or the establishment process will be dramatically slowed down. Remember, the leaves are responsible for manufacturing all of the carbon resources needed to make roots and add to the tree 'body'.

In a year or two, you can limb your trees up to expose the trunk.

Thank you both!

Looks like because I have a new your, I'll be asking alot of questions *LOL*

Bill