DO NOT listen to the passerby......they have no idea what they are talking about! Pruning stimulates growth and trimming back the top branches will only prompt the tree to try to replace them, to the deficit of root formation. It's the same concept as not pruning a shrub before transplanting - the plant needs all that foliage growth to support the root system.

That is a large tree for a starter (and especially for a redbud). You should be aware that planting larger trees at this time of year in your area is pushing the limits a bit and you will need to pay very close attention to watering through the summer and up until leaf drop in fall.

Planting is relatively simply. Dig a hole 2-3 times the width of the rootball but not quite as deep. Position the tree in the planting hole, then remove wrappings (ropes or ties, burlap from the around the trunk and top of the rootball, any wire caging, etc.) and refill the planting hole with the removed soil. Firm well and water in thoroughly. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep weeds down.

crikey ... you go to a hardware store.. and take advice from guys at the hardware store.. ON THE TREES IN THE PARKING LOT???

THANK GOD YOU HAD THE INSIGHT TO ASK .. oops...

see link .. ask if anything confuses you ;..

in my MI .. adrian.. tree planting time was april. and october ... its very hard when you try planting leafed out trees.. the only way to win.. is at the link.. perfect PROPER WATERING ...and the maples might make that hard ...

good luck

ken

Here is a link that might be useful: link

I love redbuds. Just planted another one today. They are just beginning to show leaves here in SE Wis. Like the others said, don't prune it this year. But when you do finally get around to pruning it, you may notice that redbud often have V shaped crotch angles, where 2 branches come together. The more narrow, or V shaped the crotch, the weaker it is. The more horizontal the branch is, the stronger it is. Just keep this in mind when choosing which branches to remove.