Are there garden plants that i can plant in the autumn or winter?

we are moving to a house with a huge backyard. But the front and back yards are depressingly devoid of shrubs and plants ans such. I want to liven the place up with garden plants. But I know its coming on winter - do I HAVE to wait for spring to get greeneries in pots or in the ground? Appreciate any help from you gardeners.

Are there garden plants that i can plant in the autumn or winter?
I love to plant winter Kale in the fall here in the Midwest USA. It has a dark green-to-purple foliage and is striking against the planters and in the early frosts/snows. I think it can be used in salads, too, but I find it too beautiful to cut!
Reply:As long as you can still work the soil, you can still plant shrubs and certainly - plant some bulbs now for spring colour.
Reply:There are lots of things you can still plant. It is still early enough in the year to allow plants to establish a bit before the weather gets too cold. Check with your local nursery and ask an expert there. It all depends on the location and your 'zone'. I know pansies are great winter color and snapdragons to well too. Not many plants flower through a hard freeze, but most should survive or have a warranty if you buy them locally.
Reply:Crocus will come up in the snow. Check with your local gardening place tho.
Reply:Ornamental cabbage surrounded by pansies make a great container garden.