This page contains links outside Washington State University which provide an option for finding further information. No endorsement of products or information at these sites is implied. The long weeks of dry days have stressed many garden plants.
Leaves droop, perhaps browning at the edges.
You may see premature bloom on forsythia, osmanthus, and even rhododendron, which is often a reaction to warm temperatures. Do water plants that show severe drought stress if dry conditions continue. However, use water wisely now because many reservoirs and other water supplies are low, and the return of fall rains may still be some weeks ahead. Water suppliers also have the added responsibility of guarding stream water levels for fall-spawning of salmon. October's one of the best months to look in nurseries for new shrubs and trees - and, indeed, for all garden plants.