I think the secret to any garden is your never finished. ; ) Most of my plants are old, some are half as old as i am, like friends that your glad come and stay and miss when they sleep. I can't put a lot of money in, just keep the soil healthy, try not to hurt the planet in anyway and not expand to the point where watering becomes too high of an expense. Mulch is most critical, the right place for the right plant, which takes a while to figure out, some I iwll move in the spring, some will get divided. Wish you were close, I would send some your way. Many of my plants were gifts from dear friends, two who have passed on and so when they come up, and bloom, to me, it is like a part of them is still with me. Thanks for the compliments and for sharing in my tiny corner of the world, at least this one place, is peaceful, and kind, and full of good memories. I have been blesssed to be able to keep it with me, even tho I have had to move several times. I have friends to thank for this too, for helping me for I never could have moved it alone.
I wish you all the luck in the world with your garden.