Knowledge is power, in this case. Research your area and climate. What works for Susie in Montana is probably not going to suit your needs in south Georgia.
Choose shrubs, flowers, and grass that will work well with your soil, sun requirements, and water availability. For instance, geraniums and petunias thrive in full sun, hydrangea bushes are hardy but flower color depends on the acidity (pH) of the soil, and buffalo grass is extremely low-maintenance but turns an unappealing brown for most of the year.
Use a search engine on the internet for the fastest research, or visit your local library and greenhouse and discover what will give you the most return on your investment.