I'm a firm believer in usenet, especially for opinions. This concerns US
zone 6-7, the western suburbs of Philadelphia, PA.

Three years ago, we moved from a small twin with a 20-foot front yard out to
Paradise. We now have a little over half an acre, with some interesting
features inherited from the previous owners. Coming into our third summer
here, I have an overwhelming urge to remake the landscape, but I admit to
having a black thumb. Last year, I planted about 100 bulbs in my new
"garden" along the back edge of the property, and only succeeded in feeding
the deer and rabbits.

Overview at http://www.tfrog93.com/garden/garden1.htm. While I really wanted
a "photography garden" back there, I think I've given up on that idea. Now I
have a week off, and I'm working on a Meditation Walk.

Again, the previous owners had installed a gravel walk from the garage
around to the rear patio, planting primarily pines, with a Japanese maple
and a flowering dogwood as accents. Because of major construction last
summer, the Meditation Walk had to be redone (see:
http://www.tfrog93.com/garden/walk.htm, a page I just put up). To my mind,
there was far too much pine back there, so I've decided to plant at least
four rhododendrons along the walk, which I think will be a nice mix and a
nice "feel".

Along the walk, amongst the pine needles and between the rhodos, I'd like to
have a few sprays of color (perennials?). We have hostas all over the place,
that can be transplanted here, but I'd like some more - and different -
color, ideally from Spring through late Summer.

What kinds of plants can I put into this environment that will produce
colorful blooms at different times of the season? Mostly shade, only partial
sun in late morning, early afternoon. Again, my "focus" is on photography,
over and above the natural visual beauty...

Thanks for your advice, all!

dwight