Care of Tolerant Seedlings

['When you receive a seedling, the ideal would be to plant it immediately; in case you cannot and have to store it for a few days, you should do so in a cool place, watering the foliage and the root ball from time to time so that it does not dry out; if the seedling has been transported in a pot it will not dry out so quickly, taking care to water it every 3 or 4 days depending on the climate. Choose the rootstock suitable for your climate and soil, taking into account the following factors when planting it, on which the success or failure of your plantation largely depends.']
-At the time of planting, if any root is broken, cut at the break.
-If the root ball is compacted, loosen the soil with your hands until the roots are free. Do not shake too hard.
-Placement in the planting hole must be done with the soil in good tilth. The roots must be well distributed and spread out.
-Mineral fertilizers or manure should never be put directly into the planting holes (they can burn the roots). Cover with sun-warmed soil.
-The appropriate depth to bury the roots should be slightly less than it was in the nursery; that is, the mark that appears on the trunks should remain visible above the surface.
-Once the tree is planted, water immediately. Once the water is absorbed, earth up to prevent the tree from moving by the action of wind and soil desiccation.
-If, as generally happens, the seedling is abundant in foliage, this should be trimmed somewhat to balance it with the root system.

['SUBSEQUENT CARE']
['Given the diversity of soils, climates and cultural practices, the agricultural extension services can advise you appropriately; we offer you, in a general way, the attention your trees should receive.']
-The second watering after planting your trees should be given 5 to 10 days later, depending mainly on the soil and climate. Thereafter, ensure they do not lack moisture, but without it being excessive.
-When the seedling begins to sprout, the small shoots born along the trunk, from the ground to the formation crotch, must be removed. This operation must be done when the shoots are small; if removed when already grown, there is a risk of hardening the trunk, reducing the growth conditions.
-During the first years of the tree's life, watch for pests of aphids, earwigs, snails, ants and red spider mite, treating appropriately.
-The seedling must be free of weeds and the soil well loosened. In the first year of life, fertilizing is not recommended, and if it is done, very lightly, always after the first flush. In subsequent years, increase the fertilizing gradually.
-Pruning in the first years should be limited to removing any sucker or shoot born below the crotch, allowing abundant foliage and root system to form. To avoid possible infections of any virosis, every pruning tool must be disinfected with bleach.