The Quiet Season: Why Fall Planting is Central Oregon’s Best-Kept Secret
There’s a certain stillness that settles over Central Oregon this time of year. The air turns crisp, the light softens, and the garden begins to rest. But while it may look like everything is slowing down, what’s really happening is something much deeper.
Fall is when roots stretch, soil breathes, and next year’s garden quietly takes shape beneath the surface.
While many gardeners start packing up for the season, the savvy ones — the ones who’ve learned to read the rhythms of this place — know that fall is a great time to plant.
Why Fall Works So Well Here
Our Central Oregon climate can be tricky — hot, dry summers and cold winters mean timing matters. Fall is the sweet spot in between. The soil still holds warmth from summer, but the cool air keeps plants from stressing. That means everything you plant now can focus on what matters most: building strong, deep roots before winter.
Come spring, those roots will reward you with faster growth, better blooms, and stronger plants — already established and ready to thrive.
What to Plant Right Now
Fall is for structure, texture, and quiet preparation — and our nursery is full of plants that love this season as much as we do.
Perennials & Grasses
These might not be bursting with color today, but they’re busy setting the foundation for next year’s show.
Rudbeckia – golden blooms that carry late into fall
Artemisia – silvery foliage that adds contrast year-round
Yarrow – drought-tolerant, pollinator-friendly, and endlessly reliable
Astilbe – feathery texture and soft color for shady spots
Coreopsis – cheerful and long-blooming once spring returns
Carex & Fescue Grasses – soft movement and subtle color through the winter
Miscanthus Grass – tall, showy plumes that glow in autumn light
Trees & Shrubs
Fall is the perfect time to add structure and beauty to your landscape — whether you’re dreaming of spring flowers or fiery fall color.
Dogwoods (Cornus) – graceful form and beautiful bark for winter interest
Burning Bush – a fall classic with brilliant red color
Potentilla – tough, low-maintenance blooms that last all season
Crabapples – gorgeous spring blossoms and bright berries for winter birds
Fruit Trees – apples, pears, and more — plant now for next year’s harvest
Maples & Birch – vibrant fall color and steady, reliable growth
A Few Fall Planting Tips
Water deeply until the ground freezes — even cool-weather roots need a drink.
Mulch well to protect roots, retain moisture, and help soil temperatures stay consistent.
Skip fertilizer for now — wait until spring so plants can focus on roots, not top growth.
Plant Now, Save Big
Right now through November 2, all plants are 50% off as we wind down the season. It’s the perfect moment to fill in those empty spaces, add structure before winter, or finally plant that tree you’ve been dreaming about — at half the price.
Your spring garden starts now, quietly, in the cool of fall.
Let’s Grow Something Beautiful
At Schilling’s, we love this time of year — the slower pace, the golden light, the satisfaction of planting something that will flourish long after the season ends. Whether you’re adding a few perennials or reimagining your whole garden, we’d love to help you choose what will thrive here in Central Oregon.
Come wander the nursery, breathe in the fall air, and take home something to root into.
With muddy boots and full hearts,
The Schilling’s Garden Market Team