Old and new deck sections - uniform color

So I had another contractor take a look at the project this morning.  He seemed very knowledgeable about the stripping process and agreed that the porch exterior will require stripping.  He will be sending his estimate later, but the one monkey wrench he threw into the whole process was that he advised us to delay the project until next season.  I would love to get your opinion on this. 

His reason was that since there are a lot of trees and shade around the deck, with some tree branches extending almost over the deck, an oil based stain (which he recommended using) could take up to two days to dry.  In the meantime, we won't be able to remove any leaves that fall on the deck since we won't be able to walk on the finish while it is drying.  He said the leaves that fall on the stain and cannot be removed might stick to the stain or otherwise harm the finish while drying.  

I don't have a problem with waiting until next season if I need to, but the one thing that concerns me is that the new wood (half the deck) would be going through it's third winter without being stained (Northern Virginia, not as bad as winter in other areas but we do get our share of snow, ice and sub-freezing temps. etc.). 

Could I get your thoughts on this?

The leaves will not stick to the stain while drying but there is no issue with waiting until next year. The boards will be fine.

So it sounds like we should be fine with going ahead now or doing it next season.  

Very helpful to know - thanks for all your guidance!