CHILLING @ CHELSEA

Chelsea was back in all her glory this year, with 36 spectacular gardens, from show gardens to balcony and container gardens, as well as a feast of horticultural delights in the main pavilion.

- Gillian O'Donoghue

Most of the show gardens illustrated a clear theme that had at its central core a sense of caring and nurturing, whether for people, plants or insects. The gardens were all so special and in my mind were all winners in one way or the other. The Best on Show, Horatio’s Garden, designed by Charlotte Harris and Hugo Budd, was created as a wheelchair accessible garden for a spinal injury’s charity. With meadow planting, a water feature and seating for guests, this garden is a haven for social gatherings in a peaceful setting.

The Best Sanctuary Garden, The National Brain Appeal’s Rare Space, was designed by Charlie Hawkes to highlight the impact of visual dementia where the brain fails to interpret what the eye is seeing and the vision is fragmented. Bold structures, tall trees and careful planting help lead the eye, so the patient can find their way around the garden easily.

The Best Balcony and Container Garden, Feel’s Like Home, was designed by Rosemary Coldstream and was inspired by her childhood memories whilst living in New Zealand. The plants, materials, water feature and colour palette portray a natural, neutral, cool and tranquil setting.