Dig the hole. Scrape the edge of the root ball(done here in one motion as planted).

Make sure the top of the root ball is slightly higher than grade level.

Back fill with soil.

Tamp (to grade level).

Place rock (if needed).

Tamp rock.

Place organic mulch (if appropriate).

Smooth out mulch.

Water by hose then sprinkler.

In this picture, the water has gone 3 inches in 5 hours. If the soil is dry, REALLY WATER!!!!!!

HEY, IF THE SOIL IS WET, and RAINING, DON'T WATER..

Hose water 0-30 gallons, and sprinkler water 0-24 hours depending upon time of year and soil conditions.

My record is 600 gallons in a day by myself. I had to stop, couldn't straighten up, and had a very difficult time driving home. Good luck.