The Gardening Challenge: Six-Month Review

After 6 months and 52 hours, does your garden look different? Did you take before photos as suggested? Retake from same positions and compare—that's the only real progress check. If not as colorful as envisioned, don't worry; your photos are the best guide.

If you've kept up with project and groundwork, you should feel excited. If not, don't worry—the plan is flexible. Abandon neglected areas/projects for this year; start fresh next year. Continue where you've coped. Abandon overwhelming sections for the next 6 months.

So far: crash program to revitalize soil and add instant color/cover. Next 6 months: convert temporary effects into permanent plantings for a long-lasting, low-maintenance garden.