If you choose the right perennial or shrub for your USDA Hardiness zone, your plant should do just fine. Read the plant tag to understand its care needs, then make sure you plant where it receives the correct amount of light (for example, full sun, part sun, or part shade).

Annuals will live just one season, though in warmer climates they may last throughout much of the winter. Plant them in the fall and enjoy them until the first hard freeze. In mild climates, they may last until the following spring when warmer weather causes cool season flowers, such as pansies, to fade.

Source: housebeautiful.com