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I am planning and constructing a community garden for my inner city university (New York City) using raised beds. The footage of the beds has not yet been determined, but I would say at the very least 4′ on all sides.
Types of plants I’m interested in: mostly hardy plants, perennials, colorful, flowering in different seasons.
Any good planting resources you can refer me to would be great as well.

We bought a house about four months ago, and have spent this summer on inside work, like painting and repairs and such. Next year we’ll be focusing on the outside of our house, and I’d like to get some great perennials to go along with a variety of annuals that I can change from year to year.
So what plants make a good foundation?