I'm a lazy gardener in the UK - try Heuchera (evergreen foliage, colourful flowers, just deadhead when finished, every few years split the roots and replant); evergreen shrubs such as spiraea which come in a variety of foliages/flowers eg yellow/white, and need no care to speak of; penstemmons which you cut to the ground in spring and they bring out big masses of greenery and flowers all summer. Of course, avoid anything which needs much watering or which will get pests. Look at your neighbours' gardens and see what grows well in your local soil - ask them what plants are called and if you are lucky they will give you free cuttings and advice! Happy planting, Chrissie
