Some annuals to try for beautiful fall color - ornamental peppers, pansies, ornamental cabbage and kale, copper plants, asters, and of course, mums (chrysanthemums).
Don't give up on your summer annuals too soon. With diligent dead-heading, the milder temperatures may be just what they need to encourage a last blast of beautiful blooms.
Spring-blooming plants, such as azaleas and rhododendrons, need to be kept watered now to ensure that they will reward you with more blooms next spring.
Be sure to make good use of all those leaves you're raking - use them as compost and for mulching over winter. Leaves are rich in the nutrients our plants love.
Fall is the best time of year for planting new trees and shrubs, no matter what part of the country you are in.
Consider planting fall vegetables this year. Usually September is the time to start these. Some good ones to try are broccoli, lettuce, kale, and all types of greens. An excellent broccoli to try is 'DeCicco'; it matures in 60 days with one primary head and lots of tender shoots.
Plant bulbs now for spring and early summer flowering. Wait until soil temperatures reach about 60F before planting.
Clean and repair bird feeders, and if you discontinued feeding during the summer, now is the time to start keeping them filled again.