My mom is coming home in a month after being in the hospital and rehab, and I want to brighten up her front yard to lift her spirits. I'm starting from scratch and open to any suggestions since I don't have much of a green thumb. The house is in Zone 7, and I know there are some daffodils and a crepe myrtle already there, but the deer tend to eat the flowers quickly. The decorative white ironwork around a small window has been removed, so I'm looking for ways to make her front yard welcoming and cheerful, even if the flowers might not be blooming right away. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
2 Answers
You might want to consider adding a bird feeder near a window so she has something colorful to enjoy from inside. If mobility is a concern, having a nice view could really lift her spirits! You could also plant cold-tolerant flowers like pansies since they're easy to find at garden centers. Hanging them in a basket alongside a feeder can give a lovely touch. Additionally, planting clematis by the window would allow it to climb beautifully up the side of the house.
For more personalized advice, I’d suggest getting some closer photos of the area. That way, you can use a free plant identification app to find out exactly what you have. It’s really easy to search online for care information once you have a name. For immediate color, toss in some pansies among the existing plants—they're hardy and frost-tolerant, which could give the space some life right away.

Thanks for the advice! Since her mobility is an issue, I'm hoping to create a space that encourages her to sit outside and enjoy some fresh air. She hasn't been outside in months, and I think it would do wonders for her.