Try not to buy just one of something, unless it is a tree or a focal point - you need repetition to create an effect

Try to layer the heights of plants from tall to groundcovers

If you don't have the depth of the bed, create the illusion of a line of trees by covering the fence with one type of climber, then the shrubs, then the groundcovers

Try to get a seasonal change

No deck or paving area is big enough - remember you have to be able to pull back seats, move around with a tray of food while stepping over plastic bikes - think about how the family lives and size it accordingly

Pergolas with vines are not always the answer - by the time the vine covers the pergola, you have lost your light even if the vine is deciduous as the vines' own growth takes it away

Often a wisteria trained around the edges of the pergola gives the look you want - you can then cover the area with another material giving you an extra room

Prune, prune, prune - a young garden well pruned initially will give you a beautiful garden forever

Prune after every flowering season - this will thicken the regrowth and give you more flowers next season.

Take a soil sample with you when you visit the nursery or landscaper so that they can decide what would be able to grow in your yard