Showcasing Standout Highlights at RHS Chelsea 2024: Exemplary Exhibits and Innovative Gardens
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is now open, and it's a floral spectacle that's hard to beat! To give you a taste of this year's top picks, we tapped the brilliant minds at BBC Gardeners' World Magazine for their favorite highlights.
More Inspiration Awaits:
- Wondering about the winners at RHS Chelsea 2025? Keep an eye out for the announcement!
- Curious about the 2024 Chelsea medal winners and the best in show? We'll keep you posted!
- Looking for immediate inspiration? Check out these three Chelsea-inspired pot ideas.
- Ever wondered what Bridgerton's garden at Chelsea looks like? Find out here!
Standout Picks:
mgr Changing Tides Garden: Gold medalDesigned by Lucy Mitchell, this little gem showcases how to work wonders in tricky growing conditions. The use of small trees in containers and a mix of plants for every location make this design a showstopper. And the use of reclaimed and recycled materials adds an authentic touch. Brava, Lucy!
Picked by Kevin Smith
MOROTO no IE Santuary Garden: Silver-gilt medalThis tranquil retreat is a pure delight. Layers of green plants create surprising textures, but it's the drifts of Siberian irises that steal the show with their powerful vertical growth.
Picked by Emma Crawforth
Terrence Higgins Trust Bridge to 2030 Garden: Silver-gilt medalThis heart-stealing garden by Matthew Childs is a breath of fresh air. Exquisite planting combines traditional Chelsea favorites like poppies, irises, and grasses with succulents and unusual conifers. Resilient plants, such as Dianthus cruentus, create a harmonious and cohesive feel.
Picked by Catherine Mansley
Stroke Association's Garden for Recovery: Bronze medalThis healing haven designed by Miria Harris tugs at the heartstrings. A bravely colorful planting scheme, natural clay pond, and meditative seating area offer a sanctuary for reflection and relaxation. Windswept pine trees evoke resilience and hope.
Picked by Sonya Patel Ellis
Planet Good Earth: Bronze medalMake way for this delicious, edible oasis! This garden has plenty to offer for culinary and medicinal use, while the pollinator-friendly planting scheme creates a buzz. It's a space for communities to enjoy and connect with nature.
Picked by Claire Vennis
The RHS No Adults Allowed GardenKids and adults alike will love this cherished garden by Harry Holding. A treehouse and water corners make it a perfect adventure playground, while the planting scheme encourages children to discover the wonders of nature.
Picked by Oliver Parsons
Additional Finds:
- The Floral Dens in Ranelagh gardens caught our attention as a lovely and practical feature for gardens of all sizes. These willow structures provide essential shade, blend seamlessly with surroundings, and can be adapted for play or relaxation.
- The Octavia Hill Garden, with its colorful planting and calm, hidden oasis feel, left a lasting impression. Ann-Marie Powell and the Blue Diamond Team crafted an inviting space that seemingly transcends everyday life.
In case you missed it:
- The Savills Garden: Manoj Malde's innovative design included London's first working kitchen at the flower show, where Chef Sam Buckley prepared meals straight from the garden in a "plot to plate" experience.
- Chelsea Flower Show Wedding: Manoj Malde and his partner Clive held the first-ever wedding at the Chelsea Flower Show, marking a significant milestone in the show's inclusivity.
- Chelsea Flu and Environmental Conditions: The annual "Chelsea flu" caused by pollen from London plane trees is a well-known challenge at the show. However, the show's 2021 edition, which took place in September, experienced reduced pollution due to the change in season, as mentioned by Monty Don.
- For those interested in expanding their home-and-garden lifestyle, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show offers a wealth of inspiration, such as Lucy Mitchell's Changing Tides Garden, which won a gold medal for its clever use of plants in difficult growing conditions.
- As you explore the gardening world further, you may find inspiration in the Terrence Higgins Trust Bridge to 2030 Garden, which combines traditional plants with exotic and resilient species, earning a silver-gilt medal at this year's show.
