Gardens are tucked into the sides and rear of many homes on the Charleston Peninsula where space is at a premium. Most are separated from the sidewalk in this residential area by fences and gates but peeking through on a casual walk around these neighborhoods reveals many delights.

Some of the fences or walls are covered with plants and include some reptilian occupants peeking back out.

These Iris were swaying in the breeze behind a fence with wide slats.

The well-tended garden below was a colorful oasis backed by a green hedge.

This home has a below ground entry that is guarded by a gate, a lion and a pot of geraniums.

Many of the house lots are so narrow that there is just the house and the paved area to one side. Pots are the only way to make a garden here.