> Don't dig the hole too deep (the roots need oxygen).

> Don't dig the hole too narrow (root structure needs to expand and anchor).

> The width of the hole should be 3x the diameter of the root ball.

> If you're digging a hole in poorly drained soil (clay) break up the bottom and sides of the hole with rake points or raise the bottom of the hole higher than the sides of the hole to allow water to disperse.

> Plant balled and container trees as soon as possible or keep moist and store in a shady spot.

> Lift trees by the ball and not the trunk.

> Cut burlap back from the top third of the ball, leave roots in the cage.

> Backfill soil with combinations of peat moss, composted manure, topsoil, fertilizer, etc, just to the height of the ball or slightly lower.

> Do not compress backfill soil since this may prevent water from reaching the roots.

> For container trees, carefully remove the container and with your fingers loosen any tightly compressed roots.