Since it's only one tree why don't you get a multi-budded tree and have a few varieties on it. Look for some of Dave Wilsons trees, they are sold all over the bay area, from the big box stores to Summer Winds to the little guys. You can get them off the internet as well. Santa Clara Master Gardeners recommend you plant the tree bare root, in the dormant season (Jan/Feb) and use native soil only, slightly mounded... Here is a link that might be useful: Dave Wilson Fruit Trees

Most of the really good Lowes designers left when they quit paying commission on the sales, right around 4-5 years ago now. The ones that are left could not/would not get jobs elsewhere. Either they are old enough to be thinking of the retirement countdown, or they preferred the steadier lower paycheck of a box store to the risk of commission employment, or they didn't have the skills to be hired elsewhere. You've got a 50/50 shot at getting someone good at a Lowes. At least with a private dealer, they own their mistakes. Meaning that they are forced to learn from them because they are deducted from their commission. No one lasts long in a job if they have to pay to work there! And no shop owner will keep someone that has too many errors. It costs them their reputation as well as $$.

Sorry it took so long to get back here. I have two young children and wound up staying at the inlaws for a couple of days because the laquer smell was pretty strong. I have to say though they came out fabulous. They took the drawers and doors out wednesday and painted them at their shop. Then Thurs and Friday did the on-site stuff. Everytime I came in to check, they were sanding in between coats. They came out so smooth and beautiful. I wanted a warm white and he recommended a color and bou is it nice and creamy. They will be back to start on our walls and crown molding Monday. I will ask just to make sure he doesn't mind my posting his info online and I will try to get some pics. I haven't posted pics before-so I will try. Look for me on Monday.

Try John Bridge.com and post a "wanted" ad in the "Professional's Hangout."