Colors have temperature, moods and how they play together.
I think I start with a mood: like an early spring hill side. There's a crispness in the air and the air is clean: bright colors. There's an innocence, not maturity: tint, not fully saturated. It's the whole hill side, seen from a distance; swatches of color. It's probably a little damp, the earth and wood would be darkened by the moisture. It's young growth; yellow green.
Or here's another mood: sunset at the beach in fall.
The different color schemes also have moods: monochromatic is usually calming, complimentary is usually energetic.
Watercolor art books are very good at discussing color. The before mentioned quilt/color authors are very good. I prefer the artist color wheel to the printer color wheel, because I want to make an artistic statement.
Playing together: once upon a time, I heard, it's like a successful party. Enough diversity to make it interesting. Are you happy everyone is at the party. If there's someone who totally stands out like a sore thumb, do you want them to leave (does the party get boring then) or do they need friends to play with and get some excitement going.
There's an avatar on QB of a bargello quilt using purple pink and lime green-LOVE IT. It's happy and full of energy. Being SAFE can be boring.