From Cornwall to Chelsea - Planting a Vision
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show made its first appearance in 1862, during the reign of Queen Victoria. Held at the RHS garden in Kensington, the event fitted into a single tent and made a profit of only £88 - enough to see it run again. From small beginnings, RHS Chelsea has experienced a meteoric transformation to become the hottest date on the horticultural calendar.
With just 19 days allowed to construct show gardens, we are now aiming for the same transformation as we go from empty site to The Spirit of Cornwall.
Along with the superb soundwave and striking pavilion, a third key element in our entry this year is the planting. While it may sound obvious to include plants in a show garden, choice and location are critical.
Designer Stuart Charles Towner has ensured the species we are using are both carefully selected and counter-cultural. Reflecting the fact that Cornwall has officially been given tropical climate status, the garden features a palette of both sub-tropical and temperate plants. The space relies heavily on foliage, which Towner explains makes it very different from what most people expect from a show garden.
The Spirit of Cornwall’s planting is as unique as the microclimates of the county itself – and as beautiful. A unique man himself, Stuart Charles Towner considers it his favourite aspect of the garden.
After rain, sun and everything in between, we have lots of groundwork already completed and are now ready to begin bringing in the plants.
We hope they are as popular with the judges and the public as they are with us.
