Novice needs advice

[bunny27]

Hi, the lockdown and good weather has allowed me to spend a lot of time tidying up the garden. It has been hard work but it looks tidier and I would really like to keep it like that so would welcome any suggestions for my next steps.

I know there is a lot still to do but really want to get myself established as somebody who keeps on top of the garden !

I don’t have any kind of budget but have a birthday coming up.
I would love some colour in the garden but do you think I should be spending any money I have on compost and top soil rather than plants/flowers at this stage?
Also you will see at the back of the garden the soil is compacted and there is a slope. I will continue to get rid of the weeds, particularly the ivy ( back right ) but don’t really want to do any type of heavy work here. Are there any suitable ground cover flowering perennials I could plant at the back do you think ?
Any advice, suggestions would be warmly welcomed.
Thanks in advance.

Sorry it won't let me attach a photo.

I would have a look at neighbouring gardens and see what grows well in them. This would give you an idea, so that you do not waste money on plants that will fail.
Spending wisely can be difficult, cheaper plants take ages to grow and a mass of colourful annuals only last the summer.
As a start could get roses, climbing or Bush, Hydrangeas give long lasting colour and cranesbill geraniums flower well and last forever.

When things are less restricted you may find that garden centres have lots of plants that need some TLC and are sold cheaply.

Thanks beebumble. Yes I don't want to spend a lot for flowers just in the summer. I'm trying to think long term x