Both would be welcome in my garden, but I love the color, shape and pleating on the first one just a teeny bit better. That being said, they would both be keepers in my garden. I must get Victorian Lace! Ann

I personally think decking boards look better on a back door than a front, but it can be done in a way that is appropriate looking for a front, just needs a more formal look. ARe you thinking of doing the work yourselves or hiring someone? If you are hiring someone I would call some places that specialize in front porches and see what their ideas are. Could you replace the concrete with pavers? They have more give an don't crack.

I hope you can post a page. I'd love to see what it looks like.

Great that you have wood ash access. It is also an excellent source of the needed micro-nutrients. But as rgreen said, don't go overboard. But that is true with anything. You can always add more but can't take out what you added. :-) No ashes from BBQ grills, cardboard, plywood, painted, or pressure treated wood. Soft woods ok but not as good as hardwood ash. A commonly forum recommended application rate is 1 lb. per 100 sq. feet. but I find that to be too high for my comfort level. I prefer the recommendation out of University of GA Extension Service - 1/4-1/2" layer over entire bed in early spring before planting and mixed in and watered well. Then an additional 1/2" layer over the entire bed in the fall and allowed to over-winter in place. If any plants show symptoms of deficiency during the season you can always side dress them with an additional 1/4". Dave