The wire basket and burlap should be removed whenever possible!!! Yes i used three exclamation points. There are several reasons to get the basket off. It is not a difficult task and doesn't take much more time when planting a tree. There are a few simple steps that I would be willing to share with anyone who asks.
Metasequoia glyptostroboides being de-bagged before planting. Lowest section of basket has already been removed and Dave is cutting the burlap wad off the bottom.