Tip on planting an orchard

Whether planting a couple fruit trees in the backyard or creating a larger orchard, here is a tip:

Keep track of what trees you planted, and where you planted them. Don't rely on those tags, which will get lost.

Make a map, note each location, and then save the map in a safe spot. Preferably, email it to yourself.

Note when you planted the tree, the name of the variety, and where you bought it.

I failed to follow this advice in 2010 and 2011 when we started our orchard, and now we have nine mystery trees growing. But we're keeping track of the trees we plant this year.