12th x 12th Part One; A Hidden Community Garden

On June thirteenth, Claudia Riedener (more on her and her fab garden in a later post.) hosted an event called 12th x 12th, a walkable neighborhood tour.  Neighbors were invited to open their gardens to the public, exchange seeds and seedlings and have yard and garage sales.  A map with participating  addresses was provided. This garden wasn't on the list but a gardener whose garden was told me about it.  The story goes that a home was removed from the space (perhaps it had burned?) Concerned about what might happen as far as development of the property in this lovely neighborhood of older homes, a retired dentist in the hood purchased the land and made a garden to honor his recently-deceased wife, and and invited his neighbors to enjoy it.  The dentist still lives across the way from the garden he continues to tend.

Out on the sidewalk.

Turning into the garden.

 Inside the garden, one discovers a dappled shade wonderland.

Crazy azalea can't decide what color to be.  Perhaps they open pink and fade to white? 

Paths meander through a variety of mixed beds. 

Martagon lilies in their glorious prime.

Around each corner is a discovery.

Rhododendrons waiting to b planted. 

At the rear of the space, is a large opening where the neighbor who told me about the garden says neighbors gather for a drink at the end of the day, have picnics, and enjoy themselves.

Following another path back out to the street. 

More treasures. 

There are lots of places to sit and enjoy the garden.

Looking back at the sunny clearing/ play area/ meeting space. 

A bench in the shade.

What a great find and sweet story of a neighborhood garden!  Stay tuned for more of 12th x 12th!