Beginner - advice on planting in my front garden

[BafanaBafana]

We have a lovely front garden that was planted by previous owners. There are quite a few 'gaps' between plants that I would like to 'fill in', but have no idea where to start.

There are two big rosemary plants and a currymint (I think?) plant, and would like to grow some more herbs or possibly lavender alongside. Is this realistic? What would thrive, do you think? Our soil is quite dry and clay-like (have ordered a soil testing kit, so will know more soon!).

We have three large azaleas, currently lots of bluebells, and there are daffodils in the spring. Other than that, there seem to be lots of mossy-looking plants (haven't identified them yet) and some bushes 9ditto).

Any tips for a complete novice? We're going to the garden centre at the weekend and would like to do some planting then, but would like some clue about where to start (we're also on a budget, so don't want to break the bank!).

Rather than spending out on shrubs/perennials straight away, fill the gaps with cheaper annuals for the summer while you look in a few books to get some ideas? You could go on crocus.co.uk - they give ideas for planting companions to go with what you already have.

It's not a great time of year to do planting unless you want to be watering them all summer. Annuals will need a lot of watering especially if it is dry. I usually plan my planting over the summer, then put the plants in in September. That gives them a chance to get their roots down and established over the winter. They've got a much better chance of surviving and also you may not need to do as much watering the following year. Just a thought ... I also think crocus is great. You can sort the plants by what conditions they like - so you can choose plants that like dry and clay conditions. This was the first lessons I learned when gardening - match the plant with the conditions (otherwise it will not survive). I've seen a lot wither and die before I got the hang of it!