I just bought two maples from a local nursery - one Red Maple (Red Sunset Franksred) and one Autumn Blaze Maple. They came in containers, and the stems are about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

How often do I need to water them at the beginning? We have heavy clay soil that keeps moisture fairly well. For eaier mowing around them I am planning to use tree rings with a plastic bottom (with holes) and fill them with about 3-4" of mulch. How often would you water them?

Also, should I add fertilizer during this first spring or wait until next year? Thanks for your help!