When planning your new landscape you should consider consulting with a professional, but here are some helpful tips: First, consider your surroundings. Sun and shade exposure is very important, as there are many different plant varieties that will thrive in the sun, and there are many that will thrive in the shade. This is the most important aspect when deciding on what plants you are going to use. Second is spacing. Plants will be tagged at the nursery with details in regard to the variety, such as growth habit, so this can be helpful when deciding on the space in which the plant will need to grow, as well as the height that you may desire. It is very important to allow the proper spacing between plants so they do not grow into each other and compete for nutrition. Finally, you should take notice of the pests in your area (deer, rabbits, etc.) and select the plants that are resistant.