1. Be sure to dig a hole twice as wide and twice as deep as the root ball size.
2. Amend the soil you took out of the hole with Quali-Grow Brand 3 Way Mix or manure, peat and compost. Mix in some granulated bone meal, which will break down slowly and feed the tree later in the season. Use this soil to put back in the hole to bring the level back up so that the tree will not be planted deeper than it is in the pot. It's important NOT to bury the base of the stem.
3. It is generally recommended not to disturb the roots when transplanting. It is best to have the soil depth correct in the hole first, then cut the bottom of the pot off. Set the pot in the hole. Slice the side of the pot in one or two places. Start to pack more of the amended soil in the hole as you slide the remaining pieces of the pot off. This will prevent the root ball from falling apart.
4. Make sure the tree is well watered before planting; continue to let the hose trickle at the base once planted until the area is well saturated. You can use any remaining soil to use arond the base to create a moat or a saucer effect to hold the water in when you do water.
5. Fertilize with Parkwood Transplanter fertilizer 5-15-5 at time of planting. This helps in reducing transplant shock and includes a rooting hormone which helps the tree get established quicker.
6. Stake your tree for the first couple of years until it is stable especially if it is in a windy open location.
7. Continue to water when needed and fertilize yearly with either tree fertilizer stakes, liquid or slow release granular what ever best suits your lifestyle.
