Annuals
They may only bloom twice a year, but the showcase is glorious. With annuals, timing is everything. Planting takes place in fall and spring, depending on your choice of flower. Good soil preparation goes a long way to an abundant show of flowers. Drainage is important, so dig up your soil and add fertilizer or compost a few weeks before you start planting. If you're looking for an annual that last for months, try the petunia. If you want something for pots, beds or borders, consider pansies. If you appreciate a bright bloom, opt for marigold. If you like character and color, try the zinnia.

Perennials
If you don't want to spend too much time digging and planting, a perennial gives you a lasting display. Most of these hardy flowers only need watering once a week. They do require full sun, so choose a good spot. Some of the most stunning varieties of herbaceous perennials (these die back and re-shoot) and evergreens (foliage all year round) include the carnation, gerbera, sage and winter rose. If you're a novice and would like a head start, choose a potted perennial.

Bulbs
If you have the patience, trying your hand at bulbs can be the finest feat for a gardener. Fancy and fragrant blooms such as the daffodil, the hyacinth and the iris are some of the most impressive displays in the world of flora. They might only display for a week or so, but spring wouldn't be the same without them.
Choosing bulbs is your chance to be an artist. Use your patch of soil as the canvas. Consider color combinations: blue and white look beautiful together, as do the pastels.
Remember to plant with the pointy end up, and leave enough space between them. You'll save on bulbs if you buy in bulk.