How would you make over this front yard?

If you have a knack for designing gardens, we want to hear from you! We're kicking off our first Before & After Design Challenge to find out who can propose the best garden makeover for this reader's front yard. Send us a planting plan and 3-D rendering. And if your design wins, we'll feature it in the magazine.

Here's how to enter: Based on the landscape profile, design a garden that dramatically boosts curb appeal and addresses the site's listed challenges. Our panel of editors and garden designers will judge the plans on problem-solving prowess, planting design, thoughtful use of space, and, of course, overall good looks. You can create your design by hand or by using any design software program. Just be sure that your application includes the following materials: 

✓ Entry form
✓ Three-dimensional rendering
✓ Planting plan (a labeled bird's-eye view that reflects the placement of the house, hardscape, beds, and plants)
✓ Planting-plan key (complete with botanical and common names)

Mail your entry form and color printouts of your plans to Before & After Design Challenge, 63 South Main Street, Newtown, CT 06470. Or email your entry materials to DesignChallenge@taunton.com. All applications must be postmarked by Thursday, November 15, 2012. Should you have any questions, call us at 203-304-3543. We can't wait to see how you would transform this space!