1. Planting: Plant or repot within 4 weeks of arrival. Remove the stake and ties at planting, as these are only for shipping. Choose a location with full sun, good air circulation, and well-drained soil. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, keeping the root flare slightly above ground level. Allow enough space for the tree’s vigorous mature growth.

2. Watering: Water deeply after planting and regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, provide deep watering during dry periods, especially while fruit is developing. Avoid keeping the soil constantly soggy.

3. Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Train the tree to an open-center shape so sunlight and air can reach the canopy. Remove dead, damaged, crossing, or inward-growing branches, and thin excess fruit to improve peach size and reduce strain on limbs.

4. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fruit-tree fertilizer in early spring as growth begins, following label directions. A light second feeding may be beneficial after harvest if growth is weak. Avoid excessive nitrogen or late-season fertilizing, which can encourage tender growth and reduce fruit quality.