Mother’s Day Inspiration in the Cottage Garden

Looking for a little Mother’s Day inspiration in the cottage garden? Come along for a springtime stroll through my garden as I share what’s blooming, some thoughtful ways to celebrate Mother’s Day with flowers and plants, and a few garden-inspired gift ideas I’ve found this season.

For me, Mother’s Day marks a turning point in the garden. Our average last frost date is around April 18th, but I never fully exhale until Mother’s Day has passed. That’s when I know it’s finally safe to plant tomatoes and peppers in the garden, and when everything really begins to take off.

This day always feels like the unofficial start to the best part of the gardening year. The blooms are bursting, the beds are filling in, and the possibilities seem endless.

Mother's Day Cottage Garden. Here's the greenhouse in spring.

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pink rhododendron blooms

By the time Mother’s Day arrives, my cottage garden is starting to burst with life. Most of the plants are still green and haven’t started blooming yet, but there are a couple of stars!

Rhododendrons

The rhododendrons are in full bloom, with their bold clusters of flowers bringing vibrant color and structure to the garden’s backdrop.

Azaleas

greenhouse with purple blooming azalea growing in front

These Pacific Northwest spring favorites are popping the garden with their cheerful, delicate blooms.

purple azalea plant

Many of the varieties have already come and gone, but this gorgeous purple shade is blooming right now.

Clematis

fuchsia clematis growing up the arbor

Clematis vines are putting on a beautiful display, climbing up trellises and arbors with star-shaped blooms that add height and romance to the garden.

My cottage garden will be filled with blooms just in time for some Mother's Day Inspiration in the Cottage Garden. Pink Montana Rubens clematis covering the arbor

This pink Montana Rubens clematis had taken over this arbor in the most beautiful way, welcoming you in with a soft splash of color.

I always show this view, but unfortunately, the entire plant just never came up one year.

The spring-blooming clematis comes in the most gorgeous colors when not much is happening in the garden yet.

evergreen clematis blooming on trellis

The evergreen clematis is a showstopper right now. Its glossy green leaves provide year-round interest, and its fragrant white flowers give you an early spring surprise.

Lilacs

purple lilac blooms with butterfly along the white picket fence

Lilacs are in full bloom, filling the air with their sweet, nostalgic fragrance, while hellebores continue to hold their own from early spring.

Columbine

fuchsia columbine growing in the garden

The columbine are dancing through the garden with their delicate, nodding blooms—each one a whimsical burst of color that feels right at home in a cottage setting.

fuchsia columbine growing in the garden

I bought a few more of these perennial plants for the spring garden, including some cream and purple varieties.

Weigela

Mother's Day Cottage Garden. Weigela

The weigela is just starting to bloom. Its arching branches are covered in soft pink flowers, which draw in hummingbirds and add a lovely pop of color to the garden at this time of year.

Hellebores

purple hellebores growing in the garden

I can’t believe that my winter-blooming hellebores, or lenten roses, are still going strong.

Their subtle, delicate blooms bring quiet charm and lasting color to the shady corners of the garden.

Late-Blooming Tulips

double late sunlover tulip blooming in the garden

When I think of the perfect spring flower, I think of a tulip. Here are a few that are in full bloom around the garden.

double late sunlover tulip blooming in the garden
amazing parrot tulip blooming in the garden
green star tulips

This tulip is by far my favorite because of how unique it is. The “Greenstar” variety has two layers of alternating petals, the shade of Granny Smith Apples, and white outer edges that point like a court jester’s hat. 

Flower Containers

bird bath with pebbles and flower containers with petunias on garden patio

I’ve also started filling my containers with freshly planted annuals, including petunias, lobelia, and geraniums, which bring instant color to patios and garden pathways.

flower containers in the garden
annual flowers planted in the vintage galvanized bucket

This is the time of year when everything begins to feel full of promise, and the garden becomes the perfect backdrop for celebrating a day that’s all about love, beauty, and growth.

The timing is perfect for lilacs, which are in full bloom around the first past of May for us here in the Pacific Northwest, gardening zone 8B.

We’ve been lucky to enjoy several sunny Mother’s Days out on the deck, with views of the Puget Sound on one side and the blooming garden on the other. It’s one of my favorite ways to celebrate, surrounded by flowers, fresh air, and family.

Lilacs are usually at their peak right around the first part of May here in the Pacific Northwest (Zone 8B), and they always steal the show.

I used a vintage quilt as the tablecloth and vintage china for our Mother's Day tablescape last year.

One year, I set our outdoor table with a vintage quilt for a tablecloth and layered in some favorite pieces of vintage china. It felt like the perfect mix of sentimental and seasonal.

I used a vintage quilt as the tablecloth and vintage china for our Mother's Day tablescape last year.

I still laugh when I look back at the pictures from that brunch—the lilacs looked stunning during the meal, but the moment we started clearing the table, they completely wilted!

This is a perfect reminder that flowers, like memories, are fleeting but all the more special because of it.

Mother's Day Inspiration in the Cottage Garden. Spring greenhouse with vintage bike

Mother’s Day looks different for everyone. Some will spend it surrounded by children or visiting with their mom, while others may be celebrating from afar, or honoring the memory of a loved one no longer with them.

baby on mom's shoulders
Katie and I in 1993

For me, Mother’s Day is deeply personal. My daughter, Katie, passed away almost seven years ago, and each year, I honor her by planting something beautiful in the garden. It’s a quiet, meaningful ritual that brings both comfort and connection.

If you’re looking for a way to add a special touch to the day, here are a few garden-inspired ideas to try, whether you’re celebrating with loved ones or simply spending the day soaking in the beauty of spring.

Favorite Flowers to Plant for Mother’s Day

pink roses at The Butchart Gardens
  • Lilacs – Timeless and fragrant, a true symbol of spring.
  • Lilies – Elegant and full of meaning, from purity to remembrance.
  • Roses – Especially pink ones, which symbolize appreciation and gratitude.
  • Azaleas – A cheerful way to brighten up the garden or a patio.

Create a Special Garden Together

pink and purple petunias growing in flower containers on patio

Design a flower bed in your mom’s garden using her favorite blooms, or plant a container garden if space is limited. This is a wonderful way to spend quality time together and create lasting memories.

yellow coneflowers in early bloom

You could also have your children create a planter or window box for you—a gift that grows over time.

Here's a fun idea! Plant an elevated herb garden. This one is from Hammacher Schlemmer. Here are some more options.

Want something more practical? Try planting an elevated herb garden, or get creative with hanging baskets and colorful pots for the porch or patio.

There’s something incredibly special about giving a gift that comes straight from the heart and the garden. These thoughtful, handmade ideas are meaningful and a beautiful way to share the joy of gardening with someone you love.

Share Your Divided Perennials

pink primrose clump after dividing

If you’re dividing your perennials this spring, why not set a few aside for your mom?

Transplant them into her garden or tuck a few small primroses into a charming basket or vintage pot if she’s short on space.

There’s something so touching about receiving a plant that’s been growing in a loved one’s garden—it becomes a lasting reminder of that connection.

Create a Garden-Fresh Flower Arrangement

hellebores, Japanese roses, and tulips in a white pitcher

Fresh-cut flowers never go out of style. Gather a handful of blooms from your own garden and arrange them in a vintage pitcher, mason jar, or other unique vessel. It’s a simple gesture, but one that always feels extra special.

Make a Hanging Basket

hanging baslet with annual flowers

Hanging baskets are surprisingly easy (and fun) to put together yourself, and they’re often much more affordable than pre-made ones.

Around Mother’s Day, prices always seem to spike, so creating your own not only saves money but also allows you to customize it with your mom’s favorite colors and plants.

Gift Her Some Seedlings

cut flower seedlings

If you’ve been growing annuals from seed, plant a few flower seedlings in containers or directly in your mom’s garden. Not only will she enjoy watching them grow, but she’ll also have fresh flowers to snip and enjoy all summer long.

Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones, remembering someone dear, or simply soaking in the beauty of the garden, Mother’s Day is a time to pause and appreciate the moments that matter most.

For gardeners, it often marks the true beginning of the season—a fresh start filled with blooms, sunshine, and endless possibilities.

I hope this little tour through my cottage garden has given you a few ideas and a bit of inspiration to make your own Mother’s Day special. However you choose to spend it, may your day be filled with love, memories, and of course… flowers.

Until next time,

Happy Mother’s Day!

My Thrift Store Addiction | The Crowned Goat | Shiplap and Shells | Calypso in the Country | Open Doors Open Hearts | Follow the Yellow Brick Home | Cloches and Lavender | Lora B. Create & Ponder 

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23 Comments

  1. You have a beautiful home and green house. And o that view. I know it’s breath taking ! I would so enjoy it. I live in town. But grateful for a home since so many people have lost theirs. Ian TRUELY sorry for the loss of your young daughter. 26 so young. I know it’s not easy. My heart goes out to you. I lost my husband suddenly 8 years ago. We will see our loved ones again. They are waiting for us with our Lord. And our beloved pets too. Have a wonderful Mothers Day

  2. Kim, visiting your garden is always a treat. When I visited WA, I saw a peach colored peony tulip for the first time, in the market place. I’ve been wanting to plant some ever since. Maybe this is the year!
    I would love it if you shared this post at my new Friday With Friends Link Party. The next party starts this Friday at 8am MT.

    Happy mom’s day to you 🙂
    RR

  3. I only found your blog just a little while back. Just fell in love with your home your declaratiing style and that wonderful green house and that breath taking view. So I was excited to say the least when I signed up to get your blog.
    My heart skipped a beat when I read the words that you had lost your daughter. I know your pain. I lost my husband seven years ago. The pain never leaves but with each day the Lord helps us and we do smile again knowing we will see our loved ones again in Heaven….where they are waiting on us. Have a beautiful day and a beautiful Mothers Day

  4. Kim,
    I loved this post and especially seeing that sweet photo of you and your daughter. I’m so sorry for your loss and I know Mother’s Day is a hard time for you. I’d love to share this post on my Sunday’s Dirt Road Adventures.

  5. What a lovely post full! Tulips are my favorite flowers and I love all the varieties you have any your garden. Your flower arrangements are stunning too. How sweet to plant something new in your daughter’s memory!

    I hope you have a beautiful Mother’s Day with your garden bursting forth in bloom!

  6. I just love looking at photos of your garden. It makes me want to get out and enjoy my own but it’s a bit cold. I especially love those santander tulips – they are so beautiful.

  7. Love every glimpse of your gorgeous gardens, Kim. Those peony tulips are amazing! I need to keep the gardening mojo going long enough in the fall to get some Spring bulb flowers planted; I always peter out:( I am so sorry to hear about your huge loss; I had no idea. Whenever I get frustrated with my big kiddos that are still home, I remember to cherish every moment I have with them. You just never know. Planting flowers and plants as a memorial in your garden is perfect. Love hopping with you!

    1. Thank you, Lora. Hugs to you and thank you for the kind words. I am LOVING the tulips that look like peonies. I am going to get so many more this fall. Yes, I know you will cherish every single moment with your kids. It’s so important. Always love hopping with you all well.

  8. Kim, I am so sorry you lost your daughter. I hope your space in the garden brings you some peace. As always, your stunning flowers and gardens inspire me. You are surrounded by so much beauty. And I love your lilac themed table as well – gorgeous! Great to hop with you again!
    Shelley

    1. Thank you for the kind words, Shelley. The garden really does take me away, I get lost in it. I’m so happy that I got into gardening when we moved here. I don’t know how it happened but now I’m obsessed…in a good way.

  9. Kim!!

    Your garden!!!! I love it!! Mine is literally empty right now! But we are getting them! It’s supposed to be warm this week!!! haha I love you elevation herb garden! I’ve been thinking about building one for the porch…maybe I’ll do it this year!!!

    1. Thank you, Aliya. I definitely think you should take the time to build an herb garden! I’m looking forward to seeing your garden once it’s in full bloom. Thanks for visiting!

  10. One of my favorite places in all of blog land, Kim, love your garden so much! It always seems really peaceful and relaxing. I could sit at your beautiful lilac table and talk for hours. Thank you for reminding us we can still find special ways to honor our loved ones no matter what the season. Big hugs, CoCo

    1. You always have that special ability to make me smile CoCo. Thank you so much for the kind words and I have a feeling that we would talk for hours if given the opportunity! Hugs back sweet friend.

  11. Kim, your garden is gorgeous and I am smitten wirh your lovely brunch table! Blessings, Cecilia @My Thrift Store Addiction

  12. Your garden is such an inspiration. I planted two lilacs last year and I can’t wait to have blooms like those on your table. I’m so sorry to hear about your daughter. A garden tribute is a beautiful way to commemorate her.

    1. Thank you so much Marie. I appreciate your kindness. I actually “borrowed” the lilacs from my neighbor. My 3 shrubs are still a long way from blooms like this.

  13. Kim,

    First let me say how truly sorry I am about losing that sweet baby at 3. You are so brave to be able to speak about the lose. You are honoring her memory in the best sweetest way.

    I could look at your garden all day. Sitting and seeing all this beauty must be amazing. How I miss gardening. But big deal I make our deck our Garden room. Your tulips are stunning and the Peony tulips are so pretty.

    I can’t wait to have warmer days and begin planting.

    Cindy

    1. Thank you, Cindy. I appreciate your kind words. I actually lost her 3 years ago when she was 26, so I was able to have many years with her. This is the first year I’ve been able to share it with others. I love that you make your deck the garden room! So happy to be hopping with you today.

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