We stay focused on each part of the total picture!Start by picking out healthy plants from the nursery.
Make sure the plants are pest free, and the structure is horticulturally correct.
Look below at the branching and make sure there are no crossing branches that will effect the form and will need to be removed. Transport the plants in an enclosed space or properly tarp the plants. Look for weeds in the root ball or pot that may be allowed to flourish in your landscape. Take time to prepare the soil, amending your existing soil with new soil, compost or peat moss. Give your plants room to grow with proper spacing. As a rule of thumb, they should come close to touching after 5 years. Use supports to control the direction of growth. Look for signs on the leaves and bark for potential long term problems. Deadhead fading flowers before they go to seed for better seasonal leaf growth. Identify a problem before it's too late, like transplanting a tree close to your house. Check back for more tips from Steve.