Generally, we recommend green side up. Sorry, we couldn’t resist that one...that was 'sophisticated' horticultural humor. Seriously, your dwarf plant is really no different than other woody plants in your garden. Plant at the same or slightly higher level as the original soil level in the container, and loosen soil to the sides of the hole for lateral root growth. Water thoroughly at planting time, and as needed until established. Avoid late summer fertilizer so the plant will ‘harden off’ before freezing temperatures arrive. Also, go easy on the mulch. 1-2” is plenty. Some mulch will help retain moisture, but too much is a problem. Remember the roots need to breath. Specific cultural requirements regarding sun, shade, etc. are included with each plant description.

Bare Root Care

As for the care of your bare-root tree after it arrives, it’s really pretty simple.  The tree will be packed in moist, shredded newspaper and will be fine if you don’t get to it the day it arrives.  However, you’ll need to unpack it within a day or two and plant it in a pot.  Basically just select a one- or three-gallon size pot (usually about a 6-10 inch diameter pot will do just fine), fill it halfway with good quality potting soil, add a 10-10-10 balanced fertilizer (slow release is best, like Osmocote) and place the tree in it and fill the rest of the way with potting soil.  Tamp the soil down well as you go and water it thoroughly to get the air pockets out. 

I would recommend keeping it in the pot for at least 2-3 months to let the roots get stronger, but 1 year is ideal if you can wait that long.  Once you decide to plant it in the ground, toss a handful of triple-super-phosphate in the planting hole before you place the tree in, which will help the roots grow once again.  Stake it as you see fit.