;oday is National Arbor Day, so grab a shovel and get ready to plant a tree. However before you do so, the International Society of Arboriculture advises there are numerous things to consider. ;Choosing the right tree is the first step. Selection should be based on these criteria: the location; the correct species for the environment (resilience, hardiness, purpose); and long term maintenance.

The second step, according to the society, is to make sure the tree is planted correctly. How a tree is planted, and initially maintained, makes all the difference. Too many people are content to simply plant a tree, but don’t ensure that it has the chance to go on to live for many years.
;"Planting a tree is making an investment in the future," says Sharon Lilly, society educational director. "You must care for and nurture your young tree so that it will pay dividends for years to come." ;The following are some of the society’s tips:

Prepare the tree for planting. For bare-root trees, neatly cut away any broken or damaged roots. Soak the roots for a few hours prior to planting to allow them to absorb water. Container-grown trees should have the plastic or metal containers completely removed. Carefully cut through any circling roots. Remove the top half of pressed peat/paper containers. Balled and Burlap (B&B) trees should have all of the ropes cut. Pull the burlap at least 1/3 of the way down; slit remaining burlap to encourage root growth. If in a wire basket, cut away the top of the basket.