The fall season in general is a great time to plant because of the cooler weather. For perennials, shrubs, and trees it is actually the best time to get your hands dirty in the garden. Work in late September and October pays dividends come next July when everything blooms. For those interested in color in the spring, bulbs present a great option. Master Gardener Carrie Sherrill says that bulbs are easy to plant but watch out for the wildlife.
Tulips are probably the most well-known spring blooming bulb. Assuming they survive the deer, they burst into full bloom in early May.