Hole depth should be 2-3 inches less than the root ball depth, so that the top of the root ball is positioned 2-3 inches above the surrounding finish grade (ground level).
CAUTION: Over-digging the depth of the hole, then back-filling, may result in undesired settling.
Place plant upright in hole, and start filling around the root ball with existing soil.
If B&B, remove burlap from the immediate area around trunk.
Continue filling around the root ball a few inches at a time, watering the fill each time to remove any air pockets.
Insure that the root ball is adequately watered before finishing.
Stake the tree only if it’s on a windy site or a severe slope.
Mulch an area at least six feet in diameter around the plant.
Do not put over 1 inch of mulch over the top of the root ball.
Insure that the plant is adequately watered throughout the year.
Start your fertilization program as the roots become established in the fill soil, usually sometime in the Spring if planting was in the Fall or Winter.
Remove any nylon (or other) support or stake strapping by the end of the first year.
