Hi, all - Just moved into my first house (!!) and looking for advice. We have empty front yard space where we'll put in three raised beds. Any suggestions for how to get a garden started in zone 7a? We want two of the beds to be flowers and one to be vegetables. This is my first experience with a yard so any and all advice welcome!

Hi Ashley!
Thanks for including your zone. That is so helpful! I am in Zone 8a, but right on the border with 7b near Atlanta, GA. I like "easy care" perennials. More blooms, less work! I grow (in sunny areas) iris, dayliles, black eyed susan, coneflower (echinacea), gaillardia, coreopsis, angel trumpet, tall garden phlox and butterfly bush. For shade I have mostly hostas, heuchera and hydrangeas. Are there any particulars you are looking for, like a certain color, or plants that attract butterflies? Also, if you are willing to list your city, that might encourage locals to suggest plants that do well in your area.

Hello Ashley, and welcome!
My suggestion would be a single purchase at your local bookstore. Lasagna Gardening by Patricia Lanza. It will inform and enthuse you and can also be used as a reference for both flowers and veggies.Good luck!