Anyone have any suggestion on how I should proceed in getting my flower beds started? I was thinking two rows because I have raised beds. Maybe put the larger ones in the back, mid size on the sides and smaller up front center. I have about 7 beds to fill. I have all my plants on a spreadsheet with color pic and description of the plant, Should I just start with plant size large to small, and than what color combinations may work well together? My garden is pretty much all sun, but there is some shade throughout the day, so I got plants that I think will be a good fit. Also do you think it would be possible to have a climbing rose planted in a raised bed that is about 1 foot deep and about 4 feet wide? I would like to have it climb on my fence.

Here is an example of the beds

looks like a great set up and sounds like you are very organized. In addition to what you've mentioned about placement and color, I also consider how the garden will be viewed. If, for example you will be sitting on a patio and looking out over your gardens you might want to adjust your planting scheme to favor that view.

I have mostly Island beds with paths so there are several vantage points. Not all my 'tall' plants go in the back of beds - many times there are in the center because I view the garden from both sides - make sense?

The best advice I have is to get started and enjoy the process - moving plants and adjusting for seasonal bloom is part of the fun!

Hi 843rphyllis! to ATP. I'm glad Catherine jumped in; it's sage advice. You have such a wonderful setup with an amazing number of possibilities. That, perhaps, is why few have been eager to enter into this conversation. As a dear friend here reminded me, the garden should really be about pleasing the one who tends it and not for others, so do have fun and plant what you like.

Here's some of the typical stuff. Plant in groups; odd numbers are often good. This way your bed(s) will have a focal point when bloom time comes. Aim to have plants that bloom at various points in the season. Don't be afraid of the evergreens. They are particularly nice come winter. As for colors, many like to grow flowering plants that are close in color, such as pinks and violets near to each other. So think of the rainbow wheel -- ye ol' ROY G BIV -- and you can go from there. Others I know like the more thrilling combinations, that really aren't all that close, such as bright reds and deep purples.

The best thing is that things can always be moved and shuffled about. In my experience, that accounts for a lot of garden time.

As for the rose question, check the rose forum. Those folks would be well equipped to help out. I have many a visit from deer, so roses don't work for me.

Have fun, and take lots of pictures. I'd love to see how you make out, and I'm sure others would be very interested too!