I wouldn't bother. The cones aren't going to take a huge amount of energy.

Resin

Thanks Resin! Do you think the copious cones are a sign of decline that is showing up a year after transplant on these trees?

I've seen overly heavy cone production precede the demise of conifers. So you're on to something there. But if, as I suspect, these cones and their accompanying structures are presently green and photosynthetic, might as well leave em be. The issues I referenced were on older plants anyway, mostly various spruce.

+oM