There are some misconceptions about fall planting. Most folks understand that, yes, fall is the time to plant trees and shrubs. But, I get calls everyday asking if it’s too late this time of year. My answer is hardly! Fall in the Puget Sound is different than fall anywhere else in the United States. Here we continue to have mild and moist weather well into December and some years we hardly even have a winter. Tree farmers usually wait to harvest trees from their fields until all the leaves have dropped from the deciduous trees, or until we have had a couple of good hard frosts.
The perfect time to plant is when you can find the perfect tree and when you have the time. Trees planted this time of year will have a long, sustained period of cool, moist weather to get acclimated to their new home. So, don't hesitate to plant now. Put on your foul weather gear, and visit your favorite nursery or tree farm to find the perfect tree for your situation.