RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2018: Highlights

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show brings over 150,000 visitors to SW3 each year, and the globally-recognised event is in full bloom for 2018. Attendees are promised a feast for the eyes, with botanical inspiration drawn from a range of sources, including the Western Cape of South Africa, Yorkshire Dales and Chinese City of Wuhan.

Highlights encompass an emphasis on environmental issues, led by designer Tom Stuart-Smith’s Weston Garden in the Great Pavilion, which features recycled materials and plants. Elsewhere, Kate Gould’s West End Secret Garden celebrates Chelsea using a range of environmentally positive technology to explore 21^st century London and the relationship between commerce and culture.

Prominence is also given to ways in which gardens can enhance wellbeing. The Feel Good Garden, designed by double-winner of the BBC People’s Choice Award Matt Keightley, is especially captivating. This area highlights how gardening, and simply being in a green space, can make one feel happier, more productive and engaged.

The design showcases the positive impact of gardening on mental health in an increasingly urbanised and stressful world. It comprises five elements – paths, planting, trees, furniture and terraces – with a cool, muted colour palette. Matt has also offered his tips for creating your own relaxing space, which you can see here.

Meanwhile, the South African garden is strong on nostalgia. Designed by Jonathan Snow for Trailfinders, this beautiful space incorporates a distinctive Cape Dutch house with accompanying planting, including red-hot pokers juxtaposed against blue agapanthus and pink roses. In addition, show sponsor M&G has put on a fantastic display with their romanticised haven, where poppies and euphorbias stand against tall rusty-red brick walls, creating a charming, natural space.

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show has a total of 10 Show Gardens, 33 Artisan Gardens and a variety of displays in the Great Pavilion, as well as hundreds of shopping stands, ensuring guests can take home a memento of their visit.

Rebekah Absalom
Photos: Courtesy of RHS Chelsea Flower Show

RHS Chelsea Flower show runs from 22-26 May 2018. For further information visit here.