What to look for when buying a tree

A High-Quality Tree Has:

1. An adequate-sized root ball. If possible, check to ensure there are enough sound roots to support healthy growth.
2. A trunk free of mechanical wounds and wounds from incorrect pruning.
3. A strong form with well-spaced, firmly-attached branches.

A Low-Quality Tree Has:

1. Crushed or circling roots in a small root ball or small container.
2. A trunk with wounds from mechanical impacts or incorrect pruning.
3. A weak form where multiple stems squeeze against each other or where branches squeeze against the trunk.