New Fruit Tree Pruning

[Spiider]

I just planted 10 crabapple trees this spring and am learning about training them. I already see some that are growing close or past the central leader. Can I prune them in the summer or do I wait until the end of winter? Same question about giving them that staggered stepped appearances. Trim this summer or wait?

 

[wklman]

Are you talking about vertical growth? If so you might be able to weigh or tie the branches down so they are more horizontal and not growing past your central leader. A picture would help if you can put one up.