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Purchase and plant three- to four-foot trees with good root systems while fully dormant (December-February). Before planing, remove packing material. Soak the roots in water no more than one hour, and remove any that are broken.
Dig the planting hole just large enough for the root system to be spread in a natural position. Set the plant even with -its original depth, which is indicated by a change in color on the stem. Do not add fertilizer to the hole. However, root stimulator, available at local garden centers, may be applied according to label directions. Thoroughly water the tree. Be sure that air-pockets in the hole are filled and that the soil is at the proper level at the base of the tree after watering. Remove all tags and strings that may girdle fast growing stems.
A fertility program should begin in late fall of the first growing season for ornamental trees. Fruit trees can be fertilized the first year after they leaf out in spring and begin active growth.
Robin Wright Brumbelow, Smith County Master Gardener
Texas AgriLife Extension Service