Mulching reduces competition from other plants, conserves moisture and keeps soil temperature closer to what the plants' roots prefer. Stake only when necessary. Trees will establish more quickly and grow faster if they are not staked. However, larger trees or those in windy locations may need to be staked the first year. Guying materials must be strong enough to provide support but flexible enough to allow some movement of the trunk.
Movement is necessary for the trunk to become strong.
Horticultural tap or canvas webbing at least 1.5 inches wide makes good staking material. There you will find a brief history of Arbor Day, ideas on how to celebrate, a sample Arbor Day Proclamation and press release, information on the Kansas State Tree, and the history of the holiday in Kansas. The proposed move will improve the chances that school tree plantings and other events will have warmer spring weather. The new date will also coincide with National Arbor Day, and be close to Earth Day. I have always advised people that the best spring tree planting season in Kansas was bracketed by the state and national Arbor day, from late March to late April.