At my childhood home in Sandy Springs, Georgia, we were surrounded by six acres of woods. The “street” (actually just a seldom traveled road) was far from the house. So, it came as a bit of a novel idea to plant a garden on public display right on the street in front of our home.
I planted it as a mixed border of perennials and annuals, with the idea that the taller perennials in the back will establish and form a permanent backdrop for the smaller annuals in front – and I’ll only have to replant a long row of annuals every year. Four years into the project, it’s beginning to work out well. The soil is good and I get plenty of sun but it has taken all this time to find the right combination of plants.
Always frugal, I began by transplanting things that I already had growing in the back, including Japanese Painted Fern, which has grown, multiplied and spread until it’s almost a weed. I really wanted a row of daisies but after trying for three years with little success, I finally gave up. (Who can’t grow daisies in full sun?? Go figure.)I had better luck with a daylily that had languished in the shade for years. Once it got enough sun, it showed its true colors. 
The combination this year seems to be a happy community of plants. White echinacea, blue salvia and a long row of small (very happy) petunias make up the bulk of the border. On one side of the steps, I began planting rosemary along the wall with the hope that it will become an evergreen backdrop. At the opposite end, lantana delights our many butterfly visitors.
I have been pleased with the results, especially since it seems that every car that passes by our house slows down. I was convinced that it was to take a good long look at my garden until my husband pointed out that there is also a speed bump right in front of the house. I chose to ignore that bit of information.
Happy Summer!
Laura