We have teamed up with our friends at The Land of Bohamia to make this Mother’s Day one she will never forget. See details below for a chance to win a cozy glamping getaway filled with nature and quality time, with our Mother’s Day Package Giveaway!

Enter for a chance to win by following these rules:

• Follow @AlabamaOutdoorsOfficial and @Land_of_bohamia on Instagram
• Like the post on our Instagram page (@alabamaoutdoorsofficial) that looks like the picture above.
• Tag a mom in your life in the comments who deserves to win this sweet escape. One person per comment (more comments = more entries) 
• Share this giveaway to your stories and tag us for 5 bonus entries! (You may have to message us as well with a screenshot if you have a private account).
• Giveaway begins on Wednesday, May 10, 2023 and ends on May 14, 2023 at 11:59 CDT. Winner must follow entry guidelines listed above.
• This giveaway is in no way affiliated with Instagram.

The PRIZE (over a $500 value):

• A 2-night glampsite stay (for up to 2 people) provided by The Land of Bohamia
• Glamping getaway essentials from Alabama Outdoors:
  • 1 Bogg Bag
  • 1 Yeti Rambler 25oz Straw Mug
  • 1 Pair of Goodr Sunglasses
  • 1 Nomadix Festival Blanket
  • $50 Alabama Outdoors Gift Card

The terms + conditions:

• Giveaway begins on Wednesday, May 10, 2023 and ends on Sunday May 14, 2023 at 11:59 CDT. Winner must follow entry guidelines listed above.
• The winner will be chosen by random drawing and notified by Alabama Outdoors via Instagram on Monday May 15, 2023.
• The winner will be able to choose which 2-night glampsite stay they want based on date availability. The 2-night stay must take place by May 31, 2024. 
• The winner must sign the waiver and follow all rules and policies set by The Land of Bohamia
• Travel to/from the Land of Bohamia is not included in the giveaway nor is travel reimbursement included.
• You must personally know the accounts you tag. Tagging celebrities and bot accounts do not count.

Looking for more gift ideas for Mom? Check out all of our Mother’s Day gift ideas here! We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

We have listed 10 ways to celebrate the mom in your life, make her feel special, and maybe spend some time outdoors this Mother’s Day weekend!

Plan a weekend staycation or getaway

Plan a weekend staycation or getaway. We have put together ideas for a great Mother’s Day Weekend in Birmingham, Florence, and Mobile. Each city offers a wide array of activities for any interest, a needed change of pace from the day-to-day, and most definitely well-deserved relaxation and fun. Click each city for our full blogs on where to go and what to do! From urban outings to outdoor adventures to a relaxing beach getaway, and in between, we are sure to have something fun she will enjoy.

Have a picnic somewhere unique

Maybe the Mom in your life loves being outdoors without having to go far to enjoy nature. If so, find a local park or go somewhere close she hasn’t been and set up a picnic! Surprise her by doing the work and planning the menu with some of her favorite bites. Put down a blanket, put up a hammock, and put out the spread. Relax + enjoy. 

Visit the Gardens 

Don’t just give the Mom in your life flowers for Mother’s Day, take her to where all of the flowers bloom. She will enjoy the peaceful setting and beauty the gardens provide.

Here are a few of our favorites in Alabama:

• Birmingham Botanical Gardens
• Mobile Botanical Gardens
• Aldridge Botanical Gardens
• Huntsville Botanical Garden 

Start a backyard garden together

May is the perfect time to start a garden. So while you are roaming the sidewalks at the local garden, discover plants and flowers Mom likes and help plan out her garden at home. Having a backyard garden will bring more of the outdoors to her when she doesn’t have time to be in the great outdoors but wants the serenity. Plus- she can grow vegetables which is even more fun!

Explore the trails 

If your mom likes hiking or even a nearby nature walk, explore a new trail or new park together. Whether you head out of town to check out a scenic view or wander through a local urban greenspace or trail, she will enjoy just being in nature. 

Go camping

You have been camping all year in your backyard preparing for this year. It’s time to take what you’ve learned in your trial runs and head outdoors! If you’re just starting, here are some tips for car camping and where to go that offer a more relaxing camping experience. Grab a new weekender bag or other travel gifts for mom here.

Start the day with yoga

If your mom enjoys staying active, invite her to join you for a local yoga class or a virtual outdoor yoga session with you. You can adjust to her preferences with a relaxed flow or muscle-burning poses with tricky inversions. Pair a fun yoga session with a new activewear set she will love! Shop activewear for mom here.

Do something on her list

Whether it is something on her to-do list or her bucket list, pick a couple of things out to help cross them off her list! We know she will love the help with chores. Once that is done, plan an adventure she has wanted to do and go with her! Maybe there is a hobby she has wanted to try, find a class and sign her up! Is there a trail to a waterfall she has been wanting to go to? Pack your water bottles, tell her to gear up, and hit the trails! Like the idea of chasing waterfalls? Check out our list of top waterfalls in Alabama, some that require zero hiking!

Treat her to a special brunch 

Does the Mom in your life cook for you and others a lot? If so, this Mother’s Day treat her to a special brunch out on the town where she can relax. If you will be spending the weekend under the stars, plan out a special fireside brunch to start the day off.

Catch a sunset

Pick out a sunset hike or find a local panoramic view to set up a picnic and enjoy the sunset. Who doesn’t appreciate the beauty of a sunset? Looking for the best spots? Here are 5 Stunning Sunset Hikes in Alabama.

Get Mom something she will love to go with your fun-filled weekend or to show her you care from far away! Click here for the Top Gifts this Mother’s Day. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by giving your mom a gift that reflects her love for the great outdoors? Whether she enjoys hiking, camping, or simply spending time in nature, there are plenty of thoughtful gift ideas perfect for her next adventure.

Below we have highlighted this year’s top gifts for any type of mom on your list. Mom, new moms, grand moms, active moms, beach moms, dog moms- any mom.

On Running Women’s Cloud 5.0

The best part of these shoes is all in the name. Mom will genuinely feel like she’s walking on a cloud with these incredible, lightweight shoes. Put Mom on Cloud 9 with the On-Running Cloud shoes. Shop here.

Goodr OG Running Sunglasses

Fly, fresh, and fun sunglasses are the perfect grab-and-go gift for any mom who loves to be outdoors. With UVA and UVB protection, a no-slip bounce grip, and a range of colors she will love, these sunnies are the Spring + Summer ‘it’ item and her “accessory necessity”. Shop here.

Hoka Clifton 9

Make this Mother’s Day a colorful one for mom with the Clifton 9! These vibrant running shoes not only offer a pop of color to her workout outfit, but also provide the support and extra cushioning needed for a comfortable run or all-day activities. Vibrant and supportive, just like her, these shoes are a real shoe-in this Mother’s Day. Shop here.

Free Fly Women’s Breeze Skort

As easy and breezy as her, she will love the Breeze Skort from Free Fly. Shop here. The Breeze for women also comes in the Breeze Pull On Short and the Breeze Lined Short.

Bogg Bags – Original Bag

The gift of all gifts.  This versatile tote bag is perfect for moms who love the beach, picnics, or any outdoor adventure. Large enough to hold all of the essentials and made from durable EVA material so it is easy to clean. Plus, its stylish design and colors make it a great accessory for any outfit. Give mom the gift of convenience and gift her a Bogg Bag! Shop here for all Bogg Bags.

Coolibar Women’s Catona Funnel Neck Tunic Top

The best gifts are fashionable and functional, like the Catona Funnel Neck Tunic Top from Coolibar. This tunic is lightweight and breathable and features UPF 50+, so this is the perfect gift for the active mom who loves to be outdoors while taking care of her skin.  Shop here.

Owala FreeSip Bottle

The key to flawless skin is to stay hydrated. The Owala Free Sip water bottle is our new go-to bottle for staying hydrated all day. The Owala Free Sip bottle comes with a built-in straw for easy sippin’, or a wide mouth option. With an array of color combinations, there is something she will love. Shop here.

Nettie Pickleball Set

Mom will be the star of the court with her new vibrant and fun Nettie Pickleball Set. This set has everything she needs to get started if she is new to the game- or a nice upgrade from the one she’s been using from day one. The paddles are lightweight and so are the pickleballs, making this a great way to exercise and try something new! Shop double and family sets here.

Birkenstock Boston Suede Soft Footbed Clogs

Give mom what she deserves this Mother’s Day, comfort and timeless style. The Birkenstock Boston Clogs feature a soft contoured footbed that will mold to her foot and give her that extra support and all-day comfort. Not to mention, the clog style is versatile and back in style! Shop here.

Yeti Roadie 24 Cooler

This cooler is the perfect accessory for Mom and a gift everyone can use all summer long. Keeping contents cool all day, you won’t have to leave the beach or dock.  Did we mention the cooler can accommodate wine bottles or large soda bottles standing up for a spill-proof design? Thank you, Yeti. Shop here.

Looking for more gift ideas for the mom in your life? Shop here for all gifts! We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

Being in nature reduces stress, increases pleasant feelings and well- it’s just good for the soul. So if you’d like to spend some time in the great outdoors around Florence for Mother’s Day weekend, here are some ideas!

Exploring the outdoors near Florence:

Nearby day adventures

• Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall in Florence is a must visit and an even better activity for a nearby Mother’s Day adventure. Why? Well, a local man named Tom Hendrix spent over 30 years building a stone wall in memory of his great grandmother and her journey on the Singing River. We recommend reading further before you visit as the story is powerful and will make the visit that much better. Visitors have expressed the wall is healing and peaceful.

• The TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority) Rockpile Trail is a 2.67 mile out and back trail in Muscle Shoals that runs along the Tennessee River. This is very accessible but rated as moderate so be prepared with the right shoes! If Mom loves hiking she will love this, plus the waterfalls make this hike even better!

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Aftco Women’s Ladyfish Shorts will take her from the trails to the water, and out for a local bite afterwards. Made from durable Nylon with UPF 50 sun protection and quick-drying DWR, these shorts are made for it all. 

Overnight + weekend excursions 

• Dismals Canyon is a hidden Alabama gem and popular bucket list item for Alabamians and other travelers. Located in Phil Campbell, AL this National Natural Landmark is a sandstone gorge filled with diverse plant life and wonder. There is a 1.5 mile hiking trail, Rainbow Falls, and the best of all- Dismalites. Dismalites are larvae that glow fluorescent blue at night to attract food, and the canyon offers night hikes to see them glow. Dismals Canyon also has stunning campsites and cozy cabins if your Mom prefers glamping. On site there is also a soda fountain, and a spa to treat Mom to during your stay.

• McFarland Park is an easy staycation + getaway as it is located right in Florence on the shores of the Tennessee River. McFarland park has 60 campsites, fishing piers, jogging trails, and more! This river-front home for the weekend will be fun for the whole family without going too far. So set up your camping site and enjoy a sunset on the river while lounging by the fire.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Birkenstock Women’s EVA Arizona Sandals are made for adventures and will be her go-to all season long. Made from a high-quality, odor-neutral EVA foam, these sandals are easy to clean, lightweight enough to float, and the perfect slip-on for the river or the campsite. 

Interested in a weekend of urban outings in The Shoals this Mother’s Day? We have what to do + where to eat in Florence. Check out our ideas here.

How about the best of both worlds? These ideas will get you enjoying nature while in the city of Florence + give you time for more activities. Check out our ideas here.

Get Mom something she will love to go with your fun-filled weekend or to show her you care from far away! Click here for the Top Gifts this Mother’s Day. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

Does yoga or brunch sound fun to you and the mom in your life? How about wandering around the local farmers market and showing off your culinary skills? We have listed ideas for an urban outing in Florence this Mother’s Day weekend.

Urban Outings in Florence:

Plan a Farmer’s Market theme day

On Saturday, spend the morning strolling around the Florence-Lauderdale Farmer’s Market. While you’re there, buy ingredients for a special ‘Farmers Market dinner’ with fresh ingredients from your local farmers. She will love supporting local and spending quality time with you.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Bogg Bag Tote (any size). Mom is going to need a cool tote for those dinner ingredients and other fun finds at the market! Made from EVA foam, Bogg Bags are waterproof, easy to clean, and will hold up for all of her adventures. That being said- they are the go-to tote for busy Moms! 

Eat local at a Mother’s Day Brunch 

Treat Mom to brunch at one of Florence’s delicious eateries. Here are some of our favorites that will warm your soul, fill your tummy and deliver Insta-worthy pics. Plan ahead for this as they may have a special menu or may take reservations.

• Esther’s Eatery is a fast casual health focused restaurant, bakery + wine shop. YES- health focused, a bakery, AND a wine shop. We love this combo. Be sure to check out Esther’s on Saturday as they are closed on Sundays.

• Odette’s is a neighborhood eatery and your spot for Sunday Mother’s Day Brunch in Florence. Serving up elevated American fare with southern and international influences, this is a spot you want to make sure you indulge at. *Note they are taking reservations and offering a special Mother’s Day menu.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Women’s Gresham Maui Freshwater Pearl Bracelet. These are perfect dressed up + adorable in photos.

Coffee + Spa Morning

Start the morning with a cup of delicious day fuel at Turbo Coffee. These baristas know just what we love + need sometimes. After, head next door and surprise her with a facial at GunRunner Boutique Hotel + Spa (make sure to check the spa days/hours and appointment availability). She will leave feeling renewed, refreshed, and ready to take on the day.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Women’s On Cloud 2.0 are a perfect shoe to slip on after a workout and to go around town. Light as clouds- they will keep her comfortable + cool wherever the day takes her. 

Support local artisans and businesses

Is the mom in your life a fan of the arts and always making sure to support local however she can? If so, then take a short drive to Home Grown Art in Sheffield where she can peruse and shop the talents of various local artisans.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Women’s Teva Universal Sandals are a perfect sandal for days antique + art shopping through The Shoals. Style + comfort is key here.

Relax and enjoy a sunset over the Tennessee River

Whichever day adventure you choose, whether it’s in the city or the great outdoors, end the day with a picnic dinner and sunset view over the Tennessee River at McFarland Park. It sure is blissful. 

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Nomadix Festival Blanket in Palms Night is the perfect blanket for a picnic + lounging at the park. With an adorable soft plush top and water-resistant base, this blanket will keep you comfortable + clean. Plus the print is a fan favorite house plant- need we say more? 

Would you rather explore the outdoors, learn about Dismals, or sleep under the stars near Florence? Check out our ideas here.

How about the best of both worlds? These ideas will get you enjoying nature while in the city limits of Florence + give you time for more activities. Check out our ideas here.

Get Mom something she will love to go with your fun-filled weekend or to show her you care from far away! Click here for the Top Gifts this Mother’s Day. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

Mother’s Day weekend is upon us and you want to plan a fun adventure. Are you interested in getting outdoors without getting too far off the beaten trail? Below we have highlighted some of Florence’s scenic strolls, local parks, and where to enjoy a local bite to eat after!

Florence outings that offer the best of the city + nature:

Stroll through a rustic paradise at one of Florence’s local parks

• Deibert Park in Florence, AL is a tranquil park with walking trails and a picturesque pond. So pack a blanket, stay awhile, enjoy the view and company. Either plan a picnic or afterwards take her to lunch at Sweet Basil Alabama for a tasty local bite.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: The Hoka One One Women’s Clifton 7 is not your typical running shoe. These shoes feel like marshmallows, will give her support all day long and are as stylish +vibrant as her. She will adore you and them.

Plan a picnic at the park 

• Deibert Park listed above is also a fantastic park for a picnic! With plenty of green space to get comfortable and wonderful views of the pond, we can’t think of a more serene place to have a picnic.
  
  
• Wilson Park in downtown Florence is known to the locals as the site for “Music in the Park” and other events. This Mother’s Day, change it up and pack a picnic, sit at the park, and enjoy the flowing fountain!

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: The Yeti Roadie 24 is a perfect gift for Mom. Give her the cooler as a gift, once she opens it- tell her you have the day planned, pack the cooler with her favorite bites and have a picnic at the park! 

 Get some light exercise in at a popular Florence urban trail + park

• Wildwood Park is located just minutes from downtown Florence. While known for its mountain bike trails, the park also has good walking/hiking trails for all to enjoy its beauty. The park also runs alongside Cypress Creek which is perfect for canoeing and kayaking if that is more of Mom’s speed.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: She will love Free Fly Women’s Breeze Shorts anywhere she goes this summer. With ultra-soft bamboo lining, these lightweight and moisture-wicking shorts are perfect for all-day adventures. They are also super flattering and cute!

Interested in a weekend of urban outings in The Shoals this Mother’s Day? We have what to do + where to eat in Florence. Check out our ideas here.

Would you rather explore the outdoors, learn about Dismals, or sleep under the stars near Florence? Check out our ideas here.

Get Mom something she will love to go with your fun-filled weekend or to show her you care from far away! Click here for the Top Gifts this Mother’s Day. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

Being in nature reduces stress, increases pleasant feelings and well- it’s just good for the soul. So if you’d like to spend some time in the great outdoors around Birmingham for Mother’s Day weekend, here are some ideas!

Exploring the outdoors near Birmingham:

Nearby day adventures

• Red Mountain State Park is located just 10 minutes outside of Downtown Birmingham. There are 15+ miles of nature trails to explore, treehouses with amazing views, and oversized wooden chairs to take a break on and snap some fun photos. Not only that, but the pups love it too as they have a dog park on the grounds!

• Ruffner Mountain is a local Nature Preserve also located about 10 minutes from central downtown with over 14 miles of trails. This is a fan favorite due to its proximity and overlooking views of the city. When the season is just right, this is a perfect sunset hike location.

• Moss Rock Preserve is another Nature Preserve located in Hoover, AL with 349 acres of forest systems, large rock outcroppings, streams, wildlife, and waterfalls! Pack a blanket, some chairs, or a hammock and relax listening to the sounds of nature. When you are finished, head across the street to the community of the Preserve for mouth-watering pizza at Vecchia or tacos you will dream about at Moss Rock Tacos + Tequila (all kid-friendly).

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Aftco Women’s Ladyfish Shorts will take her from the trails to the water, and out for a local bite afterwards. Made from durable Nylon with UPF 50 sun protection and quick-drying DWR, these shorts are made for it all. 

Overnight + weekend excursions 

• Oak Mountain State Park is a 940-acre park in Pelham, AL with endless options of adventures for the whole family. With cabin and campsite rentals and plenty of activities, this is the perfect park for a weekend getaway. There are over 50 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails that are sure to keep you trekking along all weekend. For a breathtaking excursion, go check out Peavine Falls, a 65-foot waterfall along the trails. Set up a hammock and chill. Other park activities include picnic facilities, a demonstration farm, and more. When the sun is out, head to the lake where there is a beach to catch some rays as well as kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals for some fun! As we said, there are plenty of activities for the whole family.

• If you’re looking for some outdoor time with a little something different, head to Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park. Not only is it a beautiful camping area, it is filled with unique and historical landmarks that will keep you entertained all weekend. There are 17 miles of trails on 1500 acres, so there is plenty to explore. On weekends in March thru November, cabins located along the plank road in the park’s center come to life with artisans producing pottery, quilts, cane chairs and art work. Perfect for a Mother’s Day activity. And the cherry on top? There is a local creamery on the grounds to grab a tasty scoop after a day exploring on a warm Spring day. We’re in!

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Birkenstock Women’s EVA Arizona Sandals are made for adventures and will be her go-to all season long. Made from a high-quality, odor-neutral EVA foam, these sandals are easy to clean, lightweight enough to float, and the perfect slip-on for the lake or the campsite. 

Interested in a weekend of urban outings in the Magic City this Mother’s Day? We have what to do + where to eat in Birmingham. Check out our ideas here.

How about the best of both worlds? These ideas will get you enjoying nature while in the city limits + give you time for more activities. Check out our ideas here.

Get Mom something she will love to go with your fun-filled weekend or to show her you care from far away! Click here for the Top Gifts this Mother’s Day. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

Mother’s Day weekend is upon us and you want to plan a fun adventure. Are you interested in getting outdoors without getting too far off the beaten trail? Below we have highlighted some of Mobile’s scenic strolls, local parks, and where to enjoy a local bite to eat after!

Mobile outings that offer the best of the city + nature:

Stroll amongst the flowers + nature at one of  Mobile’s local gardens

• Mobile Botanical Gardens is over 100 acres of pure beauty. There are multiple gardens to explore, all designed with a different theme, which makes it the wonderland it is. Stroll amongst the gardens during the day before another adventure and maybe even pack a blanket and snack to relax and enjoy the sights and smells for awhile.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: The Hoka One One Women’s Clifton 7 is not your typical running shoe. These shoes feel like marshmallows, will give her support all day long and are as stylish +vibrant as her. She will adore you and them.

Picnic at the park 

• Take in the city views and enjoy a picnic at the park. Cooper Riverside Park is a ‘waterfront oasis’. The park offers greenspaces perfect for picnics, walking paths for some exercise, and views of downtown as well as Mobile’s busy port. So, pack a lunch or get takeout from a local restaurant and enjoy the day watching the ships go by. This is also a great spot to bring your pup!

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: The Yeti Roadie 24 is a perfect gift for Mom. Give her the cooler as a gift, once she opens it- tell her you have the day planned, pack the cooler with her favorite bites and have a picnic at the park! 

Get some light exercise in at one of Mobile’s urban + nature trail systems

• Glenn Sebastian Nature Trail is a unique trail system as it is located on South Alabama’s campus. Do not let that deter you! This trail system is open to the public, has 95-acres of pine and oak woodlands with over 3 miles of trails. So if you and Mom are interested in a short hike or a light jog while still being in nature, then Glenn Sebastian Nature Trail is the perfect spot.

• Cottage Hill Park Loop is an easy 1.9 mile loop in Mobile. Perfect for a nice nature walk, easy hike, trail to walk your dog, all while in a beautiful forest setting. So if you want to get in a little exercise before your next adventure, this is easy to do and scenic!

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: She will love Free Fly Women’s Breeze Shorts anywhere she goes this summer. With ultra-soft bamboo lining, these lightweight and moisture-wicking shorts are perfect for all-day adventures. They are also super flattering and cute!

Interested in a weekend of urban outings in Mobile this Mother’s Day? We have what to do + where to eat in Mobile. Check out our ideas here.

Would you rather explore the outdoors, relax at the beach, or sleep under the stars in Lower Alabama? Check out our ideas here.

Get Mom something she will love to go with your fun-filled weekend or to show her you care from far away! Click here for the Top Gifts this Mother’s Day. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time.

While you are in town be sure to visit our Mobile store or any of our locations to get your weekend essentials!  #BeOutdoors

By Leandra Beabout

(Leandra Beabout is an experienced freelance travel and lifestyle journalist who has written for Fodor’s Travel, The Everygirl, Dame Traveler, and more.)

There are plenty of fun ways to celebrate the mom in your life, make her feel special, and maybe spend some time outside as well!

These are some of our favorite ways to show your mom how much you care:

Pack a picnic for Mom

Plan a simple menu of your mom’s favorite foods. Then pick a place that she would love. Maybe it’s watching the sunset from a bluff or shoreline. Or maybe it’s hanging out in her own backyard with her favorite music playing. Put down a blanket, put up a hammock, and put out a spread.

Explore a new trail together

If your mom likes hiking or nature walks, explore a new trail or new park together.

Arrange a garden brunch for Mom

A colorful garden sets the stage for photo memories and quality time together. Add some flowers to your backyard if needed and arrange a brunch. Use your best china, make some beignets and mimosas, dress up, put on some jazz, and have a proper Sunday brunch!

Plant some flowers together

Buying a bouquet of tulips or roses on Mother’s Day is a time-honored tradition. But what about giving her flowers to plant together in her own great outdoors? Blossoming flower beds last longer than any bouquet on the kitchen table.

Capture family memories outside

Most moms we know have walls covered with family photos. But moms are also often the one behind the camera. This Mother’s Day, what about arranging a family photo shoot outside?

Go camping

Does your mom love camping under the stars or making s’mores by the campfire? There are campsites for every camping style in Alabama. Or, you can just camp in your own backyard.

Offer her solitude

Moms with young kids always appreciate this one. Tell her she has the day off—no expectations whatsoever. Then entice her with an afternoon lounging inside on the sofa or outside in a hammock. Whatever she wants.

Try outdoor yoga

If your mom enjoys staying active, invite her to join you for an outdoor yoga session. You can adjust to her preferences with a relaxed flow or muscle-burning poses with tricky inversions.

Set up an outdoor painting studio

Unless you have a family where arts and crafts are common, you may have to plan ahead for this one. Buy some paints, some canvasses,  some cheap easels,  spend the afternoon painting landscapes or pets or whatever you want.

Catch a sunrise or sunset

Grab your cameras, drive to the nearest hilltop or peak, and toast the day with a cup of morning coffee or a sparkling nightcap.

Find the perfect gift for your mom at Alabama Outdoors! We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Take advantage of our shipping, curbside pickup, or home delivery services or make an appointment for a virtual shopping trip today! #BeOutdoors

By Natalie Ferguson

(With a background in retail and a love for wellness, travel, and the outdoors, Natalie Ferguson joined Alabama Outdoors in 2016. The Denver, Colo., native helped out with her mom’s garden growing up, and now loves growing basil and red chili peppers. Her next challenge? Growing edible flowers.)

Spring has sprung in the South, as we are all staying at home, backyard gardening is just the hobby to pick up if you have not already! Growing a garden is rewarding in a variety of ways. Not only are they beautiful, but they also can help cut down on grocery bills, and can be a fun, satisfying outdoor activity for the whole family!

More people are turning to home gardening during the COVID-19 pandemic for both therapeutic and practical reasons, so the National Gardening Association has launched a page full of pandemic “victory garden” resources.  

But here are some tips that I have picked up over the years as a backyard gardener that may help you plant the seed for years of gardening success!

Where will you plant your garden?

Begin by taking a look at the space you are working with. When planting a garden, you want to focus on the three main essentials: water, soil, and sun. If you have several options for your garden location, start by assessing the amount of sun each spot receives. Ideally, you want to pick an area that gets six to eight hours of sun each, although it is good to have some partial sun areas as well.

Another key consideration for garden location is proximity to a water source. You want to make sure it will be easy and convenient for you to water and care for it. After all, you did all the prep work to make it great!

Note: The amount of sun your garden gets determines what you can grow. There are plenty of vegetables and flowers that need full sun, plenty that only require partial sun, and some that even prefer shade. Watch your area throughout the day to see how much sun it gets and where so you can design your garden that will thrive.

Which garden method is best for you?

Depending on the space you have, there are many different methods of gardening to choose from. However, these are the three most common methods. 

• Raised-bed garden. These are great because you control the soil. That means you can ensure you are buying the best soil for what you are trying to grow. Raised beds also drain well and help reduce the likelihood of damage caused by animals and pests. This method is more pricey upfront and may take a little more time if you build them yourself, but it’s worth it in the end for the plants and vegetables!
• Container garden. This space-saving option offers a lot of versatility. Depending on the size and material of the container, you can easily move these around your yard to catch the sunlight as needed.
• In-ground garden. This old-school method is the most cost-effective as you won’t have to buy as many supplies. You do not have to build anything and you already have soil. However, you have less control over soil and sunlight coverage. 

What should you grow?

Grow what you want to eat! You will care more about the success of your garden if you are craving cucumbers and tomatoes this summer! You can buy plants that have already been started, called set plants or transplants; or, you can buy seeds to plant and grow on your own. While buying seeds is inexpensive, pay attention to the growing season of each plant as they do take time to mature and grow. 

If you are a beginner or want a vegetable garden for the summer, I recommend buying set plants to start. Here are some common and easy to manage options along with the sun requirements. 

Vegetables

• Full sun (6-8 hours): tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, squash
• Partial sun: beans, carrots, cabbage, onions
• Light shade (2-3 hours of sun): kale, lettuce, spinach, brussels sprouts

Herbs

Basil, chives, rosemary, mint, parsley, and sage are all common choices and easy to maintain.

Flowers

Annuals are fun to buy because you can change your garden every year.  Perennials cost more upfront but come back year after year. There are some flowers that you can add to your vegetable garden to add beauty or even deter pests.

Create your shopping list

Make a list of everything you need before you go. Overspending at the nursery is so easy to do if you don’t have a plan. When you are making your list, be sure to keep in mind soil preparation items, topsoil (if need be), any fertilizers you may need, and tools to do the job. And, since you will be outside tending your garden, make sure to protect your skin from too much sun and pests. 

Plan your shopping trip and your gardening day  

Dedicate a half-day so you have time to wander through the nursery. They are fun to browse and you can take your time to make sure you get everything you need. 

Also, give yourself a whole day to build your garden. This could be a great Mother’s Day activity, hint hint! 

Whenever you take your plants home (if you didn’t buy seeds), it is best to place them in your garden area and space where you intend to plant them. This way you can see if you like how it is designed, and they can acclimate to their new outside environment. Let them adjust for a day or two in their pots they came in before planting, but remember to water them. 

No space outside for a garden? 

Bring the outdoors indoors! For those who do not have an outdoor garden, there are plenty of herbs, plants, and succulents that thrive indoors as well! Check out these tips for a beginner’s guide to indoor gardening!

Helpful tip: Did you know that you can get your soil tested for free? You can submit a routine soil analysis that will tell you what you need to add to your soil for your plants to thrive. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System is one of our go-to resources for anything gardening. Check out this helpful calendar to help you plan!

Family activity: My Mom says, “There is nothing better than getting a packet of sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds and planting them with your children. It is such a fun activity for the kids and it is just magical to watch them grow together.”

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