When you say "dry pockets" are you meaning areas where the soil doesn't get wet, or where there is no soil? If, the former: I'd be worried about the soil itself if it didn't get totally wet under the conditions you describe. Another question would be: why did you have to tip the pot to drain? Aren't there drainage holes in the bottom of the pot?

Just soak the tree over night in a large container.+

Looks like this picture didn't post above

36 hour in water from rain storm. No drainage holes apparently.