1. Planting: Plant or repot within 4 weeks of arrival. Choose a sunny location and ensure the soil is well-draining. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and deep enough to accommodate it comfortably. Gently place the tree in the hole, backfill with soil, and spread a layer of mulch to conserve moisture, insulate roots, and suppress weeds. Water deeply. When planting in a container, choose a container about 2" larger in diameter than the pot it arrives in. Use a standard potting mix and water when the top 2" of soil is dry. In winter, move plants into a garage or sheltered location that stays below 50 F. Do not bring plant indoors, as this will prevent them from getting chill hours that are necessary for fruiting.

2. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, adjusting based on rainfall. Reduce watering in the winter months when the tree is dormant.

3. Pruning: Prune the Arctic Babe tree in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or crossing branches to improve air circulation and shape the tree. Regular light pruning encourages better fruit production.

4. Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer formulated for fruit trees in early spring as new growth starts. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates, and consider a second application mid-season for optimal results.