Nestled in the northwestern section of a bustling Reading, Karl Ford has spent several years transforming the backyard of his Centre Park Historic District house into a lush oasis filled with colorful flowers and fruit trees. “Even though you live in a city, you can still have a great outdoor space,” he said. “The space may be limited, but if utilized correctly you can really make the most of it.
” Ford, whose garden showcases many native plant species, has been inviting visitors to his leafy sanctuary for the last several years as a stop on the Centre Park Historic District’s Annual Garden Tour. He said he hopes those who spend some time in space find the same peace and tranquility that he has discovered. “We all work hectic lives, and we need a nice place to relax and decompress,” he said Saturday as people filtered through his backyard during the 26th edition of the annual walking garden tour.
Mike Lauter, executive director of the Centre Park Historic District, said putting the gardening efforts of homeowners like Ford on display showcases the creativity that make beautiful city gardens labors of love. “We want people to realize what a great neighborhood we have,” he said. “People can take inspiration from these gardens because most of these properties have relatively small backyards so it shows what you can do with a limited space.
” The tour highlighted nine backyards and one porch at homes located throughout the historic district. It featured live m.
