Pan - Does it ever freeze there? If so, add some leaves over the pine bark over winter. Winter is one of the most stressful things for newly planted trees. That and Summer blasting sun.
Pine bark is a great mulch. (I do not use Cypress.)
What you suggested above sounds good.
I am not sure if anyone mentioned above, but you might want to check out your Extension office. They will have lots of brochures and material adequate for YOUR growing area. Most everything there is free. They may also have a Master Gardener group. If so check them out.
I also use the plastic perforated corrugated irrigation pipe and installed some when I planted a Franklin Tree last year as well as a Contorted Filbert in a new bed I made.
Saorry for your loss.
