Question
We didn't plant our trees, they were here when we moved in (Ontario), I expect they're maybe 5 years old.  The leaves don't seem to want to hang any longer, the branches are now growing up... Does this happen because the are getting more mature - or because they weren't pruned correctly?  Once this starts, am I best just to cut them down?  Thank you.

Answer
At this time I would just cut the branches off that are hitting the ground and leave the others alone. Just trim the low hanging branches. These trees are to be pruned during the dormant season just before the spring. Then you can prune the dead branches and the other branches. The ones growing up will weep on their own as they grow.  

This tree does not need much attention and will grow into the weeping shape with out any pruning. You can fertilize it with 10-10-10 fertilizer at the rate of 1 lb per inch trunk diameter scattered around the tree and watered in good. Mulching around the the with an organic mulch at not more than 3 inches deep not piled up on the trunk will help hold moisture.