Many gardens are at their peak in summer, with colourful schemes that rely largely on herbaceous plants. However, these schemes often provide little interest for the rest of the year, and a planting plan that creates a succession of interest is likely to give much more enjoyment. Making a planting plan will ensure that you have covered all seasons with your choice of plants.

Shrubs, trees and hedges are invaluable for creating a lasting framework, while including a variety of herbaceous plants and bulbs provides changing texture and colour in successive seasons. In small gardens, choose trees with more than one season of interest - for instance attractive summer leaves and berries in autumn.

When selecting shrubs, include a good proportion of evergreens for year round colour and interest - aim for about a half of the total. There are also many evergreen herbaceous plants, and many have attractive seedheads for autumn and winter. Different deciduous shrubs will additionally create interest in different seasons.