Catherine,
My neighbor planted a Japanese Maple where I can see it when I'm outside. It's in a fairly sheltered spot so I will enjoy watching it grow. Right now it's tiny. I don't have wind protection so I won't spend the money on one. I love them tho!
We had to tear out my Emerald Arborvitae last spring. They were so pretty and then started turning brown and dying out. I gained 4' x 8' of garden space so I won't replace them.
Pirl,
When I knew I was going to order apple trees I dug the holes and kept the dirt in the garage over the winter. But you are right. Frozen ground is impossible.