If you wish to fertilize within a year after transplanting, apply a small amount of slow-release fertilizer to the top of the root ball. They are very shallow rooted and can be damaged, especially if the application is followed by heavy rains. Though various pests sometimes cause problems, the dogwood borer is most common. These larvae enter the tree near the base, primarily through wounds. Avoid bumping and bruising the base of trees with lawn mowers or other equipment.
String trimmers can also open wounds that are later infested with borers.