I'm pretty sure it will survive. Even a complete defoliation wouldn't serious harm it. It's late in the growing season, your tree should have build some reserves up by now. Don't expect it to grow any new leaves this season. Just plant it, water it, and wait for next year.

Thank you tcstoehr. I'd hoped that may be the case. I'll let the tree sit in a shady spot for a couple of days and then I'll get it in the ground.

I agree, some of mine (planted) in Maryland are already losing or have lost most of their leaves.

Plant and water well and it should be ready to jump out in the Spring.

Hey, I just wanted to update you about my seckel pear tree. I went ahead and planted it and it lost every single leaf within a few days. A month later and you would never know. The tree has leafed out and in fact, looks very healthy.

Thank you both!!