I planted a 3' species tree about 30 years ago. Typically I'd dig a hole twice the root ball size, or more, to loosen the soil up. I have good sandy loam (slightly acidic) so I usually don't amend and never fertilize for the first several months. Flood the hole and let it drain then plant. Water daily for the 1st two weeks then you can slack off a bit. You may have to approach it somewhat differently depending on your conditions.
I try to transplant evergreens, both conifers and broadleaf, in the spring. This allows them to reestablish their roots prior to winter.
Edit: Thanks for the post because I notice I haven't added a photo to the database. Mine's a pip-squeek compared to those in Bonitin's image
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