Article: When transplanting a young tree, use a pair of hand pruners to snip away smaller lower hanging branches. Pruning young trees helps the root system take hold and promotes growth of their crown, or the top of the tree. Use hand pruners and snip any smaller branches growing inward towards the leader. These branches rub against the tree as they grow and will damage it over time. Branches growing towards the leader don’t get enough sunlight to stay healthy. For young trees, it’s best if their branches are spaced 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) apart from each other. Over-pruning can damage the tree, so make sure that you leave at least 2/3rds of the branches each time you prune it. Pruning outgrowing branches should start as soon as you plant the tree. This will keep it aesthetically pleasing and promotes healthy growth.  Cutting the leader when the tree is young will inhibit the tree’s growth. Pruning trees when they are young is much easier than pruning adult trees.

What is a summary?
Cut lower hanging branches after transplanting a tree. Cut branches that are growing vertically or towards the leader. Snip away branches that are growing too close to each other. Prune the tree to shape it but don't cut the leader.