Poll any group of consumers, and they'll probably tell you that spring is the best time to set out new trees and shrubs.

But, ask a group of nurserymen and landscape contractors, and they'll emphatically tell you it's fall. Here are the reasons.

• Plants have 6-8 months to get established before the summer's heat arrives to stay.

• Plants have often been growing in the same containers all summer, so they're full-sized and ready to plant.

• Plants are often discounted in fall, as nurseries make room for holiday merchandise.

• You, and your nurseryman/landscape designer have more time this time of year. Missing are all those late winter/early spring tasks.