Creating flower beds and shrubberies

Jean392

Hi everyone. This is my first post so hope someone out there can give me some tips. I have a very large garden but very little gardening knowledge and experience. Since we moved in I've had high hopes of creating those wonderful borders and shrubberies that you see in magazines - yes I know how ridiculous that sounds! The borders are already there, some are fairly empty, others completely overgrown with old and very leggy shrubs. To be honest, I don't know where to start. Is this even the right time of year to attempt this? Should I clear everything out and start again? I've obviously looked in books and online, but I'm finding it all very overwhelming. Any tips just to get me started would be very gratefully received. Many thanks.

Fairygirl

Hi @Jean392. Borders can be created at any time. If the ground is damp and conditions are cooler, it's easier  too. 
However, if you can upload some photos of your site, that will help with suitable advice.
It's too big a subject otherwise. If you click on the icon that looks like hills, you'll get the info. Keep the pic smaller to make it easier to upload. 
Pruning can often be done in autumn/winter depending on the shrubs, so you can also get help with IDs if you get some photos 
If you can include some details about your location [just approximately] and your climate etc, that will also help.
The amount of time you have to spend on a garden is just about the most important factor, along with your budget for any changes.