Lime and superphosphate should be mixed with the backfill, if needed, based on a soil test. Do not add fertilizer at planting, because it can burn the roots. Fill in around the plant with soil until the hole is one-third full. Lightly firm the soil around the root ball. Loosen and break up any clods of soil before backfilling.
Clods can create air pockets around the root ball.
Before finishing the filling process, make certain the plant is straight and at the proper depth. It should be level with the soil surface. Apply a 3-inch layer of mulch and water. Mulch will help maintain soil moisture and reduce fluctuations in soil temperature. The mulched area should be expanded as the plant grows.