It is best to plant a bare-root tree immediately so the fragile roots don't dry out. If you can't plant because of weather or soil conditions, store the tree in a cool place and keep its roots moist.
Unpack tree and soak in water three to six hours. Do not plant with packing materials attached to roots, and do not allow roots to dry out.
Dig a wide hole, so the roots can spread without crowding. Remove any grass within a three-foot circular area. To aid root growth, turn soil in an area up to three feet in diameter.
Plant the tree with the first lateral root at the level of the surrounding grade. Partially fill the hole, firming the soil around the roots. Do not add soil amendments.
Shovel in the remaining soil. It should be firmly, but not tightly packed with your heel. Construct a water-holding basin around the tree. Give the tree plenty of water.
After the water has soaked in, place a two-inch deep protective mulch area three feet in diameter around the base of the tree.
Water the tree generously every week or ten days during the first year.