Chelsea Flower Show

What?

The world-famous Chelsea Flower Show has taken place every year since 1913 – bar gaps for two World Wars, as well as the first year of the pandemic, when a virtual version took place instead of a real-life event. This year, it’s returning for its traditional spring slot from 24 – 28 May 2022, following last year’s one-off autumn event.

In 2022, wild plants and naturalistic spaces will take centre stage. Garden designers will be encouraged to use plants that promote biodiversity, including wildlife-friendly hawthorn, hazel and woodland trees such as crab apple and sweet chestnut.

New designers on show this year include Lulu Urquhart and Adam Hunt, who will be using native British plants to display a naturally rewilding landscape following the re-introduction of beavers and other native British species in south-west England.

Other garden highlights will include Andy Sturgeon’s Mind Garden, designed to highlight the importance of connecting with each other through nature, featuring calm seating areas with a drifted plants backdrop. Elsewhere, the Meta Garden will explore the connection between plants and fungi in our woodland ecosystems, while The New Blue Peter Garden aims to stress the importance of soil in mitigating the effects of climate change.

Chelsea Flower Show has a rich history. It dates back to 1913 – but then it was known as the Great Spring Show, held within a single marquee. It has attracted royalty ever since its inception – though the King and Queen did not attend the first show, the King’s Mother, Queen Alexandra, was there with two of her children. Queen Elizabeth has always been a fan – and the show’s popularity increased a great deal after 1053, the year of her coronation. It continues to grow year on year, now drawing almost 170,000 visitors to each show.

When?

24 – 28 May 2022

Where?

The Royal Hospital Chelsea, Royal Hospital Road, London, SW3 4SR

How?

Book tickets at rhs.org.uk 

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Gardening