Trees are set on unexcavated or native undisturbed subsoil with the root ball placed one to two inches higher than adjacent grade in loamy soils, and two to three inches higher in clay soils. The trunk flare remains visible at the top of the root ball and is not covered with soil, surrounded by a four-inch high earth saucer beyond the edge of the root ball. All twine, rope, wire, and burlap are removed from the top half of the root ball, and wire baskets are cut in four places and folded down eight inches into the planting hole. Soil is tamped firmly around the root ball with foot pressure, and a three-inch depth of mulch is applied without contacting the tree trunk. Conifer trees are secured with rubber cinch ties and two-by-two-inch cedar stakes set parallel to the prevailing wind without penetrating the root ball.
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