On May 27 , five French Quarter home owners opened the gates to their lush and lovely hidden courtyards as part of Patio Planters annual Secret Gardens tour.

-photos by Melanie Cole and Ellis Anderson

Patio Planters of the Vieux Carré was established in 1946 as a French Quarter garden club that focused on pass-along-plants. Today, the organization’s mission is the preserve and beautify the French Quarter. Proceeds from the Secret Garden tours help fund another beloved annual event the organization hosts – Caroling in the Square in December. Find out more about Patio Planters and join or donate on their website.