How do you know a fruit tree is healthy before you buy it at a store?

Go to a proper local nursery for a tree. The big box home improvement centers it is hit or miss. In my area the "garden section" is staffed by people that know diddly squat about plants. They are either half dead and crispy or over watered and mushy, most of which make it to the "save me" section. In other areas it might be different. Purchasing a tree is an investment. You want a healthy tree and reliable information about care and maintenance.

Some mail order catalogs will give you a money-back guarantee if the plant doesn't live or produce. Just be sure to keep your paperwork (shipping label and receipt). Local nurseries usually have better quality plants, but no guarantee. Lowes offers a money-back satisfaction, so that is where I usually shop. You need to keep your receipts from them also.

Thanks so much

I agree with Naomie, it would be better to go to a local nursery to get the tree you want. I happen to know the person who takes care of the garden section at my local Home Depot and she is very knowledgeable about all things plants and gardening, so I would trust her with some things, but I don't know about trees and would go to a nursery.