For summer-long color using blooms, you may want to consider annuals such as geraniums, petunias, and alyssum for the sun. Perennials are great but have much shorter bloom times as they conserve energy to come back the next year. The best perennials for color would be dwarf daylilies such as Stella and Salvias, and perennials such as coreopsis that you can deadhead or cut back a bit for an encore of blooms. The mini hosta plants and impatiens would do well in your shaded area. Another trick is to use plants with colorful foliage that will last longer than flowers. Golden creeping Jenny with deep purple heucheras or black mondo grass and silver lavenders are contrasting foliage plants that will stand out even after they flower. Keep Growing, Marianne Binetti