We installed this 36-foot-long x 15-foot-deep informal flower border just last spring, but by summer's end it was full of color and life. The layers of vibrant blooms attracted bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which made frequent air raids on the numerous flowers. The companion foliage plants also helped add texture and form to this magical garden spot.

Before any plants were purchased, we had to choose the proper site. We selected a location that received lots of sun throughout the day. This gave us the opportunity to try many different sun-loving plants. If your yard is shady, don't be discouraged--you can still have a great border. Plants such as caladiums, coleus, impatiens, hostas, and ferns put on a show even in low-light conditions.

Soil preparation was the hardest part of the entire project, but nothing promotes healthy plant growth better than loose, cultivated soil. First, we sprayed the area with a nonselective herbicide. Ten days later, a rear-tine tiller was used to mix the dead plant matter into the compacted existing red clay. Then we mixed two pickup truckloads of leaf mold and 25 bags of a clay soil conditioner into the existing soil. If you have clay soil, use Perma Till or Profile to help improve drainage and reduce compaction.

After a few hours of tilling, raking, and removing rocks, the earth was finally loose. Using a hard rake, we pushed soil toward the center of the bed, crowning it in the middle to force rainwater to drain to the outside edges. Then we covered the entire area with a couple of inches of pine straw.