Having selected your plants you then need to work out where to plant them. Some people like to work on the ground with the plants themselves and arrange them on the soil whilst still in their containers. Other will sketch a rough plan on the back of an envelope, use computer software or prepare a detailed, scale drawing of the border - it is all down to personal preference really.
However you work out your plan you need to bear some principles in mind when combining plants. Think carefully about the shapes of plants - perhaps a round shrub would complement a columnar tree or look good with a spiky phormium. As a general rule, a lack of variety in plant shape will lead to monotony - think of a border consisting solely of irises, day lilies and phormiums, for example. Aim to create a variety of textures as well - whether it is the prickliness of Eryngiums, the fluffiness of Gypsophila or the wooliness of Stachys (lambs ears).
And finally, to that famous bone of contention, colour! Many pages of gardening magazines have been given over to debates on whether contrasting colours are vulgar or exciting and whether harmonising shades are subtle or boring. My answer is - it depends on the effect you wish to achieve. Harmonising and pastel colours tend to promote a feeling of relaxation and softness, whilst contrasting and hot colours create a feeling of excitement and vibrancy. Choose whatever suits your personality and your garden.
Here are some colour theory links:
Color Therapy Hot Colours In The Country Garden Easy Garden Rainbows (a seven part series) Making an impression: an artist's eye for colour More articles can be found in the Suite's Color In Gardening classification
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