How is planting a tree most properly performed?
The Texas Forest Service suggests the following: Loosen the soil in your planting site to a depth of 12 inches using a shovel. Work an area 2 to 5 times the diameter of the root ball. This will provide hospitable conditions for the tree to send out roots. Do not add organic matter (compost or peat) to the loosened soil. In the center of the planting site, dig a hole to the depth of the root ball. Set the tree in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. When removing a tree from its container, take care to avoid breaking the root ball. Position the tree and backfill with a little soil to hold it in place. Twine, wire, and burlap should be cut and pulled down off the root ball of balled and burlaped trees. Backfill with soil removed from the hole. Do not add organic matter to the backfill. As you fill the hole, use water to settle air pockets. Tamp the soil lightly, but do not compact the soil around the root ball. Build a small dam around the base of
