The most common tree planting mistake is also the most damaging one: planting too deep. A tree that goes in too deep will struggle from day one, and the problem gets worse as it grows.
The hole should be wide, not deep. Dig it two to three times the width of the root ball, but no deeper than the root ball itself. The top of the root ball should sit at or slightly above ground level. You should be able to see the root flare, the point where the trunk begins to widen at the base, once the tree is in the ground. If you can't see it, the tree is too deep.
Mulch matters, but it's easy to overdo. Two to three inches around the base helps retain moisture and moderate soil temperature. Keep it a few inches away from the trunk itself. Mulch piled against the bark holds moisture against the wood and invites rot and pests. If you've seen a tree with a mulch volcano around the base, that's what not to do.
Water thoroughly twice a week through the first growing season, more often during heat waves. A slow, deep soak is better than a quick spray. Most trees that die in their first year die from underwatering, not overwatering.
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