Thyme, generically I have been told to wait until the trees are re-established. I figure this has to be at least a year

it would help if we knew what size you are talking about.. smaller trees re-establish faster than huge transplant ...

if you think about every leaf being a food making machine to grow roots.. then logic dictates that you leave them there as long as possible .. up to 3 years.. to grow the roots that were disturbed ...

and that has nothing to do with broken or damaged limbs.. get rid of those ... or crossing ...

i guess i would not have a problem.. on a smaller transplant.. under 4 ft ... of taking the lowest branch or two.. NEXT fall ... 14 months from now ...lol.. presuming the things doesnt only have 4 branches....

any chance at some more facts.. or a pic..

good luck

ken