When the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, many homeowners assume the planting season is over. But here in Pennsylvania and across the Eastern U.S., October is actually one of the best times to get plants in the ground. The soil is still warm from summer, which encourages strong root growth, while the cooler air means less stress on new plants.
At Stoney Acres, we love fall planting because it sets your landscape up for success come spring. If you’re wondering what you can still plant in October, here’s our guide.
🌷 Fall Bulbs: Color for Next Spring
October is prime time to plant spring-flowering bulbs. They need the cold winter months to establish underground before bursting into bloom next year.
Some of our favorites for Pennsylvania landscapes include:
- Tulips – classic spring showstoppers in every color.
- Daffodils – bright, cheerful, and deer-resistant.
- Crocus – one of the first signs of spring.
- Hyacinths – fragrant and vibrant.
👉 Tip: Plant bulbs two to three times as deep as their height, in well-drained soil, and water them in well.
🌳 Trees: Establishing Strong Roots Before Winter
Fall is actually one of the best times of year to plant trees in the Eastern U.S. With less heat stress and more rainfall, they focus on growing roots instead of leaves.
Good options for October planting in Pennsylvania include:
- Maples – especially sugar and red maples for fall color.
- Oaks – hardy and long-lived.
- Ornamental crabapples – for spring blooms and bird-friendly fruit.
- Dogwoods – a beloved Pennsylvania native.
👉 Tip: Plant trees early in the month so roots have time to settle in before the ground freezes.
🌿 Shrubs: Structure and Winter Interest
Shrubs provide year-round texture, privacy, and color. Fall planting helps them get established before the heat of summer.
Consider these hardy choices for the Eastern climate:
- Boxwoods – evergreen structure for borders.
- Holly – glossy leaves and red berries for winter interest.
- Hydrangeas – many varieties do well when planted in fall.
- Viburnum – multi-season interest with flowers, fruit, and fall color.
👉 Tip: Mulch around the base to protect young shrubs through the winter.
🌸 Perennials: A Head Start for Next Year
Planting perennials in October means they’ll be ready to pop up strong in spring. Focus on varieties that handle Pennsylvania winters well:
- Coneflowers (Echinacea) – pollinator favorites with bold blooms.
- Black-eyed Susans – tough and dependable.
- Hostas – shade lovers with beautiful foliage.
- Daylilies – adaptable and colorful.
👉 Tip: Cut back any top growth after frost, but let roots stay undisturbed underground.
🍃 Why Fall Planting Works in Pennsylvania
- Cooler Temperatures reduce stress on new plantings.
- Warm Soil encourages root development.
- Consistent Rainfall keeps plants watered without daily effort.
- Fewer Pests & Weeds mean young plants face less competition.
By the time spring rolls around, your bulbs, trees, shrubs, and perennials will be well established and ready to thrive.
Ready to Plant This Fall?
Don’t let the season pass you by! October is the perfect time to add beauty, structure, and value to your landscape. Whether you’re dreaming of colorful spring bulbs, a shady new tree, or hardy shrubs that shine year-round, fall planting gives your yard a head start.
At Stoney Acres, we specialize in helping Pennsylvania homeowners make the most of every season. Our team can handle everything from design to planting so your landscape is ready for winter and gorgeous next spring.
📞 Contact us today to schedule your fall planting service before the first frost hits!