Every year, green-fingered enthusiasts and professional gardeners descend upon the Chelsea Flower Show. Also known as the Great Spring Show, this five-day event is held annually in May in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, in Chelsea, West London. Chelsea has been home to the event since 1912, but the Great Spring Show actually began in 1862, when it was held in the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) garden in Kensington, situated in the neighbouring Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Before this, the RHS organised various flower shows in the West London district of Chiswick from 1833 onwards.
EMERGING TRENDS
The Chelsea Flower Show is not only a chance to brush up on your horticultural knowledge but also an opportunity to learn about innovation, design and emerging trends in the gardening industry. It is a staple in the royal calendar, with the late Queen Elizabeth II known to be one of the show’s greatest admirers.
SUSTAINABILITY
As of 2023, all gardens shown at the Chelsea Flower Show have to be either relocated, reused, or repurposed as part of the show’s sustainability strategy. This means that many of the gardens from previous editions of the show can be enjoyed at various locations around the UK. For example, the National Autistic Society Garden, by the River Ayr in Scotland, is the 2024 silver-gilt medal winner, a space designed by Sophie Parmenter and Dido Milne to showcase the idea of masking symptoms of autism in everyday life. And garden designer Holly Johnson’s The Bridgerton Garden, a 2024 silver-medal-winning concept inspired by the wallflower-like character of Penelope Featherington in the hit series Bridgerton, can now be found in Cambridge University Hospital’s Rosie Garden.
INSPIRATIONAL
From gardening tips for small spaces to gardens designed with specific concepts in mind, the Chelsea Flower Show is sure to inspire budding gardeners, whatever size their garden, patio or balcony may be. Fine-dining experiences are also offered for those wishing to try British-sourced produce during the show. One thing’s for sure; even if you’re not into gardening, after attending this event, it’ll grow on you!