Perimeter Progress

Today was the day that my poor, neglected perimeter beds (and plants) got some attention! My veggies are growing great and I am just waiting for my first harvest! I started filling the perimeter beds with a mix of store bought topsoil and compost from the community garden. Unfortunately, I am not up to 6 inches all the way around, but after six hours of back-breaking work, I decided to call it a day. I planted Salvia, Dahlia, Lupin and Yarrow. These guys have been troopers as they have stayed in their pots for two weeks after they were purchased. I also planted two blue Hydrangeas on either side of the gate. Obviously I have a lot more space to fill, but will probably going in stages. I will probably plant climbing roses right next to the gate as added protection (unfortunately, we have to worry about people breaking into our gardens, so roses and nails are a popular deterrent). I would like to plant mostly perennials. Any perennial suggestions for a sunny, zone 6 garden?

Here are a few snapshots from today: