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 well-draining location with full sun for at least 6 hours a day. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and as deep as the root ball, then place the tree carefully and backfill with native soil mixed with compost. Spread a 3" layer of mulch 3 feet around the tree, pulling the mulch back a few inches from the trunk. Water deeply after planting.

2. Watering: During the growing season, water the tree regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Once established, you can reduce the frequency of watering. Be sure to adjust based on rainfall and soil conditions—this will help prevent root rot.

3. Pruning: Pruning should be done in late winter while the tree is still dormant. Trim back any dead or diseased branches to encourage healthy growth. Formative pruning can help shape the tree and increase air circulation, leading to better fruit production.

4. Fertilizing: In early spring, apply a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients. Use a slow-release fertilizer that's suitable for fruit trees. Follow the instructions on the package for the appropriate amounts.

5. Container Growth: Choose a container that is 2–3" larger in diameter than the nursery pot the tree arrives in. Ensure the container has drainage holes and use a standard potting mix with compost. When watering, saturate the entire rootball and allow the top 2" of soil to dry before watering again. During periods of prolonged heat, move the tree into afternoon shade to help conserve moisture and reduce heat stress. Fertilize using a fruit tree fertilizer or balanced fertilizer. Liquid fertilizers will need to be applied more frequently than granular fertilizers. Stop fertilizing 6 weeks before your frost date. In Zones 6 and 7, move the container peach tree into a shed or garage for winter, which will help protect the roots from cold exposure.