Dig a hole no deeper than the roots, but up to three times the diameter of the root system. Break the soil up with a fork before planting if the sides or base of the planting hole are hard. Place the plant in the planting hole and carefully refill, firming the soil around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Insert stake at this point if required.

Keep the base of the tree weed free, fertilise at the beginning of the growing season and water regularly during hot, dry spells.

Prune in winter to shape the tree, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage strong growth in the spring, avoiding frosty or freezing conditions. Aim to create an open, airy structure without any crisscrossing branches.

Summer prune in August by shortening any side shoots (or laterals) which are longer than 20cm (8in) back to three leaves. This will allow the sun to ripen the fruit and encourage more fruit buds. Make sure that the growth you’re cutting away feels firm to the touch.