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 and no deeper, keeping the root flare slightly above ground level. Water thoroughly after planting and add mulch without piling it against the trunk.

2. Watering: Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season, allowing the upper soil to dry slightly between waterings. Established trees generally need about 1 inch of water per week during active growth and fruit development. Avoid consistently soggy soil.

3. Pruning: Prune in late winter before new growth begins, training the tree to an open-center shape for better light and airflow. Remove dead, damaged, crossing, or inward-growing branches. Thin developing peaches so remaining fruit is spaced about 4 to 6 inches apart for improved size and quality.

4. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fruit-tree fertilizer in early spring as growth begins, following the label rate for the tree’s age and size. A light second feeding may be used after harvest if growth is weak. Avoid heavy nitrogen applications or late-season fertilizing, which can encourage tender growth.