Fall in Maine is for a lot of things: hunting and fishing, cool bug-free hikes, apple cider and figuring out what to do with all those tomatoes. It’s also back-to-school season and, finally, a chance for a few quiet hours at home.

But for gardeners, fall offers one of the best opportunities of the year. Cooler temperatures and slowing plant growth make it ideal for planting trees, shrubs and spring-flowering perennials. Unlike spring, when plants focus on new growth, fall encourages root development, allowing plants to establish themselves before winter.

September and October are the prime months for planting in Maine, and with careful attention, you can continue planting until the ground freezes. Fruit trees, roses and deciduous shrubs generally thrive when moved from containers into pr

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