The first thing to do to the tree or shrub is to water the plant well. This has been proven to reduce transplant shock. When planting out of a container, it is best to use a box knife and cut the container off of the root ball. This will decrease the amount of shock the plant goes through and be easier on you and the plant than tugging off the container, as they are often times very heavy. When planting a root ball wrapped in burlap, there are varying opinions on the how to plant. If the root ball is small enough, you can remove the entire burlap enclosure and place the plant into the ground. If it is too large, then place
the entire root ball in the ground and cut off the top part of burlap enclosure. The most important element is to leave the entire root ball intact when placing in the ground. This will diminish any damage to the root system. It is also a good idea to massage the roots when placing the root ball in the ground. With a gloved hand, lightly massage the roots all over the root ball. This essentially wakes them up and gets them ready to grow. Avoid exposing the roots to direct sunlight, as this may cause considerable damage. If the roots have become root bound in the container and are encircling the root ball, you may need to score the roots. Taking a box knife, make a ¼ inch deep slit up the side of the root ball in four places. This will allow them to grow out instead of around the ball.
