Specifications include, but are not limited to: 1) Prune all damaged or dead wood prior to planting 2) dig hole twice as wide as the root ball and shallow enough so ¼ of the root ball is above soil grade 3) Scarify sides of the planting pit to avoid glazing 4) Set root ball on the center, on the bottom of the hole 5) Cut twine or cord and pull burlap and wire from the top ¼ of the root ball 6) Backfill with existing soil. Remove rocks and other inorganic materials 1 ½” dia or greater. Add soil amendment at this time if needed 7) Set black or green “T” posts to a depth of two feet in undisturbed soil north and south of the planting pit 8) Install bracing utilizing 12 gauge galvanized wire and one continuous ring of 5/8” rubber hose 9) Construct a water retaining berm around the outside edge of the excavation 10) Water to remove any air pockets and firmly seat the tree in the hole 11) Apply an approve mulch 3” in depth to entire area inside berm 12) Water to settle mulch and insure adequate moisture 13) Clear area of any unused materials or debris