When planting potted trees, add some soil conditioner (well-rotted compost) to the planting hole and some mycorrhizal fungi to aid root establishment.

If you've ordered a bare root tree, soak the roots in a bucket of water for half an hour prior to planting, or if this is not possible, they can be heeled in temporarily, covering their roots with soil, or potted up. Protect from cold, drying winds.

Ensure the top of the plant's compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the collar of the tree is above ground level. Wearing gloves, prune in late winter to early spring for general maintenance, removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches, and lightly thin the crown to maintain shape.

Support taller specimens either with a bamboo cane and or stake during establishment. Water generously around the base of the plant. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant in spring.