It was nice for me to hear that he got started without doing a site plan because he was so excited to get started. My way is similar: observe by trying things and see what works and what doesn't, and solve or change things as you go along!
“If we are honest, we can still love what we are, we can find all the good there is to find, and we may find ways to enhance that good, and to find a new kind of living world which is appropriate for our time.” ― Christopher Alexander
Yes, I did the same thing Rachel. I didn't want to wait an entire year only observing. I'm pretty old already. I just planted things where I thought it would make sense to do that. When I needed to move something, I did. Then I moved my entire orchard to my new property. I probably wouldn't do that today, because I'm even older. Glad I did though. All of those varieties are pumping out great food every year.