why havent you talked to them.. comparing with complaining ???

start with a positive conversation ...

i would give them at least a month or two.. TO SEE WHAT HAPPENS ... before i would consider cutting on the thing ...

they were very large transplants.. last fall ... they were in severe shock.. and winter didnt help ... explain how you have watered them since planting ....

water deeply.. and PROPERLY ... take a hand trowel.. and dig a small hole down into the root mass planted. .and INSURE.. there is moisture .. deep into the root mass ...

they are stressed.. fertilizer will not help ...

i have 50 GGs ... at least that size.. but not transplants.. and i am sure my z5 MI was worse than yours.. and there is absolutely no damage... so its all related to transplant.. IMHO ...

where are you???

again ... i would talk with them.. and i presume they will tell you to give them some time.. and i highly recommend.. at this discussion it be pleasant ... putting them on notice.. and asking their opinion ... let us know what they say ....

you can argue with them later .. if need be ...

ken

ps: you went for instant gratification as to size... when the time comes... you might suggest replacement at half the size ... to get him to do such.. they will transplant easier [less shock].. get established faster.. and probably outgrow such a huge transplant ...