This is obviously a very big question and as we haven't got space here to wirte a book we have tried to give you some general rules that should keep you right.

Large flowers - gernally like the sun

Large foliage (small flowers) - generally like the shade

Silver foliage - likes the sun

White flowers - genrally will tolerate shade

Spiky foliage - likes to be dry

Large rounded foliage - likes to be wet

Colour is an important requirement for any garden.  Whilst a background of evergreen and shrub planting creates a sweep of different shades, it is only when herbaceous and perennial plants come into their own that the garden displays a welcome surge of intense colour.  For pushing the boundaries into Autumn, try planting Rudbeckia 'Goldsturm', Aster frikartii 'Monch'  or Sedum 'Autumn Joy'. Other interesting plants to try include those with unusual leaf colours - look at Amelanchier, Rhus, Euonymus alatus, and Cercidyphyllum for mesmerising Autumn shades. Colour can also be concentrated in the hard landscaping.  Objects such as timber arches and summerhouses, walls and benches can be turned into colourful features with a simple coat of paint.

Many of the herbs used for Culinary and medicinal purposes today originate from the warmer, drier climes of Southern Europe.  A traditional French way of growing these plants is within a potager -  an area of flowers, fruit and vegetables grown in harmony.  This could be edged with a Buxus or Lavender hedge, and have central stepping stones as a walkthrough feature.  Another interesting way to grow herbs is in a collection of pots on a terrace - this is especially useful for keeping more rampant varietels such as Mint, in check.

However you decide to grow your herbs, bear in mind their requirement for a well drained and sheltered position.  All ground should be enriched with a well draining mix of soil, compost and gravel, and topdressed with a grit based finish.  Suitable herbs for growing in this way include Thyme, Rosemary, Marjoram, Mint and Chives.  Some of the softer varieties including Parsley and Basil should be sown yearly to ensure perpituity. 

Inspection Covers or manholes can be the bane of many a designers life.  From driveways and patios to planting beds and lawns, it seems nowhere is safe from these ugly but necessary features.

Firstly, it is important not to completely obscure the manhole - this could cause confusion for service providers, and a subsequent general 'dig out' of your garden.  The simplest way to disguise a cover in a lawn is to create a bed in or around the area - this may then be mulched with a light coverage of gravel or composted bark.  For those with points in patios or paved areas, then 'recessed manhole covers' are invaluable.  These metal tray lids are formed to sit neatly into the top of the manhole, which can then be paved/gravelled or surfaced as required.  Keys are provided to ensure that access is available at all times if necessary.

One common 'solution' to avoid is the placing of a pot or feature over the lid - contrary to popular belief, this only serves in highlighting the offending article and should be avoided at all costs.