When to Plant? (Zone 9b)

So last week I put down my cardboard and got the leaves over it and I’m waiting on some wood chips!

My question is: it’s kind of late in the season and when do you guys think it’s best to plant? Should I cut some holes and try to get some natives in now? Or should I just live with wood chips until next Spring/Fall?

Any advice would be appreciated! I’m not a great gardner and my thumb is certainly not green. Appreciate any design ideas too!