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Use the links below for pointers on selecting healthy plants and detecting potentially unhealthy ones; planting them correctly; pruning trees, shrubs, and other woody plants; and propagating new plants by various methods.
 Selecting Plants
 Choosing plants at the nursery or garden center does not need to be a long, complicated process. Basically, look for plants that appear healthy and that avoid extremes, such as too much top-growth compared to the root ball, or too little foliage on stems that barely support the leaves. Spend more time on choosing longer-lived and more expensive trees and shrubs than on herbaceous plants.
Planting Tips
 When selecting and planting trees, shrubs, and woody climbers, it is vital to take account of the general weather pattern of your area as well as your garden's individual microclimate, because these factors will determine whether a given plant is hardy and has a reasonable chance of surviving in your garden. Proper planting and aftercare will increase the likelihood of survival.
Pruning Trees and Plants
 Pruning and training both aim to make sure that plants are as vigorous and healthy as possible, are at the least risk of infection from disease, and are free of structural weakness at maturity. They can also create striking features by enhancing ornamental qualities, such as bark, flowers, foliage, and fruit. However, pruning causes stress, so learn when and how to prune.
Plant Propagation
 Producing new plants from existing ones is one of the most satisfying of all horticultural pursuits. From a simpler technique (sowing seeds) to the more elaborate (such as layering), growing your own allows you to raise a number of plants at minimum expense, such as for a hedge, and greatly increases your selections, especially if you grow annuals and vegetables from seed.
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