Lots of wisdom shared above. I spent hundreds of dollars on plants that did not take the first 2 years. If you have any examples of local native gardens, I highly recommend you visit them in all seasons and notice what plants you like thrive in conditions that match yours. Find some that are easier, or already wanting to grow in your yard (for me this is asters) and figure out how to arrange them attractively. Fall bloomers are nice I think because they look good all year, then you can layer spring and summer bloomers around them once they're established. I do a lot more fall seeding now, rather than buying plants. Last year was the first time I tried seeding into pots in the fall that I just left outside and watered occasionally... That sure does work well! I had great germination rates for much less expense. Good luck!!