We've been getting a few questions from readers on how our garden is growing. For those of you new to Old Town Home, we're self-proclaimed "black thumbs" when it comes to our skills in this area, but despite a lack of gardening talent or experience, we haven't given up yet.

Earlier this spring we turned our attention to replanting our cast iron urns as well as completely overhauling the small area surrounding our new city tree. This small dirt patch was largely ignored and desperately in need of attention. After days of backbreaking work to remove the roots of the diseased tree that had been removed, we were ready for planting. Here's how the area looked right after we finished getting the plants into the ground.

Now a full two months later, I'm thrilled to report that all nine new plants plus the tree are thriving. Despite the recycling man's best attempts to thwart our efforts by flinging our bin at them each Monday, we haven't lost one yet!

Here's a wider angle view to show just how well the tree and other plants are starting to do.

And one more for a little closer look at the plants around the tree.

Did you notice in the photos above how much the flowers in the urns have grown, especially the sweet potato vines? It looks like our diligent watering efforts have paid off.

Despite the 100+ degree days we've been having, we're bound and determined to keep our new found curb appeal alive and well.

Alex has some concerns for the left hand sky pencil in the urn, as it seems to be struggling a little bit. We'll have to keep our eye on it, but we're not sure what to do at this point. Any ideas?

As far as the cast iron garden border goes, we're at a total standstill. We contacted two companies for estimates, but despite repeated follow up, haven't received a single estimate back. I guess we're too small of a project? Annoying nonetheless, but if anything, I've learned to love the garden without the border. I'm still hopeful this is a future addition, but we're happy with the current look.

How are your plants doing this year? Any successes or failures that you'd like to share? Any new combinations or plants that you've tried out for the first time? We're eager to hear all about it, and continue to expand our limited knowledge on the subject.