The annual RHS Chelsea Flower Show traditionally marks the start of summer for UK gardeners and plant enthusiasts, so what can we expect from this year's show?
Fabulous Show Gardens
Each year, some of the best garden designers in the world take to Chelsea's Main Avenue with their Show Gardens being the pinnacle of design innovation. In a new change for this year, all Chelsea gardens are required to be more sustainable and be re-located or re-used after the show. Some of the themes we can see this year are:
- Wellbeing - not just of our natural environment but also ourselves. Designers are promoting the benefits of gardening for our physical and mental good health and many of the gardens also support charities involved with these areas
- Edible plants, or 'edimentals', feature in many of this year's show gardens and 'The Savills Garden', designed by Mark Gregory, offers a complete 'plot-to-plate' experience where they will be using produce from the garden in their working kitchen to create a meal for a group of Chelsea Pensioners
- Water features in several of this year's display gardens, some in the form of a tranquil pool or gentle bubbling water feature. Others, such as the 'The Fauna & Flora Garden' by Jilayne Rickards have spectacular waterfalls. Water adds another sensory experience to a garden as well as giving the opportunity to grow aquatic plants or create an additional habitat for wildlife
Gardening for All
Not everyone has the space, or indeed the budget, to create a 'show garden' at home, but that doesn't mean that there isn't something to inspire you at Chelsea. With gardens for balcony and container growing as well as exhibits on terrariums and houseplants, there is something for everyone.
If you have limited space, the innovative ideas seen in the container and balcony gardens are sure to inspire. With some clever planning, you will be amazed by how much can be accommodated in a small space! Many plants are suitable to be grown in containers, but if you're not sure our friendly, expert team will be happy to give you some guidance.
The Garden of Royal Reflection and Celebration
Designed by Dave Green, this garden pays tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II and celebrates the coronation of King Charles III. The Queen was a great supporter of Chelsea, visiting many times during her reign, sometimes accompanied by King Charles, who is known to be a knowledgeable and enthusiastic gardener. The plants chosen for the garden are said to reflect the taste of both monarchs and The Queen's beloved fell pony Emma also features in topiary form! Camassia, as featured in our image, is said to be a favourite of King Charles.
Plant of the Year 2023
Hosted in the Great Pavilion, the Chelsea Plant of the Year celebrates new introductions with 18 plants being shortlisted for judging. Experts then decide on an overall winner, second and third place. The top three plants often go on to be very popular due to their uniqueness or innovation. Last year's third place went to Salvia 'Pink Amistad' and we sold out almost instantly!
Several of our directors are visiting Chelsea this week. We'll be sharing their highlights, but we'd also love to hear yours! Whether you're visiting the show ground or enjoying it from the comfort of your living room through the television coverage, we hope that you enjoy the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2023.