Choose a suitable tree
Select the planting location
Check sunlight requirements
Check soil drainage
Call to mark underground utilities
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball
Make the hole as deep as the root ball
Remove the tree from its container
Loosen circling roots
Place the tree in the hole
Keep the root flare at ground level
Backfill with native soil
Gently firm the soil
Water thoroughly
Add mulch around the base
Keep mulch away from the trunk
Stake only if needed
Water regularly
Remove stakes after establishment
Prune damaged branches only