When we got our lootie last spring, the first thing i planted (after we had dug one bed) was some herb plants. Got sage (2 types), thyme (2 types), oregano, rosemary, chives and a small bay tree from B&Q - not an advert, but they were well priced.
Putting in plants gave us something to look at with aching backs as we cleared the rest of the plot. Seeing them thriving made it easier to carry on when the going got heavy!