Open Days (formerly Behind the Garden Gate) ala carte - South Battery Garden Delight

South Battery Garden Delight

Part of Open Days 2026 - purchase à la carte

Saturday, May 30, 10 am to 3 pm

This mid-19th-century colonial revival house, with recent piazza additions, is surrounded on three sides with gardens designed in 2020 by noted Charleston landscape architect Sheila Wertimer.

You are greeted by an allée of eight dahoon hollies in boxwood-edged beds with seasonal plants. A large live oak tree provides shade over a bevy of holly ferns. The first-floor piazza provides an inviting space for entertaining and viewing of the gardens. Descending from the piazza to the rear pool garden, one passes through an allée again of Washingtonia palms underplanted with Farfugium ‘Giganteum,’ African iris, and ferns.

Travertine marble surrounds the pool with shrub borders of Podocarpus, boxwoods interspersed with purple Agapanthus, and potted lemon, lime, and mandarin orange trees holding court among the chaise lounges. On a lower brick level, an old pittosporum hovers over a classical fountain and a grass carpet.

An adjoining family terrace with corner potted sasanquas overlooks the pool and sunny vistas. The husband’s favorite spot is the “Little Garden,” a hidden spot adjacent to the pool terrace, with a table and chairs for enjoying meals or a drink any time. Palms, podocarpus, sasanquas, azaleas, and ferns encase this lovely garden.

To purchase tickets to all six participating gardens as a bundle, please click here.

Please note: Garden Conservancy membership credits cannot be used for this event.

Price: $15

There is no CHS member discount for à la carte purchases.

Please note that registrations are non-refundable. We appreciate your understanding, as your spot helps us plan and provide the best possible experience for all attendees.

Thank you for supporting our programs and helping us grow together!

Location for various gardens will be emailed to ticket holders before the event.