It is late in November and the leaves are almost all gone. I am spreading seed at this time of the year for two reasons. I did not want birds to eat it, so I tried to wait until they were mostly gone. I do not know if this was a valid concern, but it was something I considered. Planting in the Autumn rather than Spring is more important for another reason. The native seeds need to follow the natural cycles. The cold and moisture of winter will allow the seed hulls to soften and prepare for germination. They will also have a chance to settle in to the ground a little so that the roots will take hold and protect the seedling from animals as well as weather.