Now is an ideal time to plant trees, shrubs, and many other plants. The soil is still warm enough to promote strong root growth, and cooling fall temperatures are less stressful to new transplants than hot summer weather.
Stake trees as necessary, and add 2-3 inches of mulch around plants to hold moisture. Leave 2-3 inches around the base of the plant bare of mulch, which could cause moisture problems. Remember to add a good starter fertilizer, and keep the soil moist (but not soaked) around new plantings if there’s not enough rain.
By next spring, your plants will have well developed good, strong root systems, enabling them to put on a substantial amount of growth and truly “spring ahead.”