• When purchasing a native plant, gently slide it out of its container and check the roots. Don't choose a plant with a lot of top growth and too many roots in the can. Too many roots mean that the plant might be root bound and will have a more difficult time adapting to its new environment.

• In clay soil, plant on raised terraces or on a slope with a sleeve drain.

• Dig a planting hole, fill it with water, and let the water drain out.

• Carefully remove the plant from the can and gently lower it into the hole. Native plants are fragile; take care not to break the crown or roots

• Before filling the soil in and around the plant, lay a stick across the hole and check how high you have placed the plant. Make sure the top of the root ball will end up 2 inches above the surrounding soil; this is especially important for native plants. Don't bury the crown in soil, or it will rot.

• Backfill the hole with native soil, gently pressing it down around the roots with your hands.

• Build a watering basin. Put a layer of loose mulch over the roots to keep them cool and moist.

• Water deeply. Thereafter, water regularly enough to keep the soil damp but not soggy. During rains, open the berm of the watering basin to let water out.

• Once the plant is established, decrease irrigation. Eventually water it only as needed in summer.