LONDON: Early springs, droughts and floods are influencing this year’s Chelsea Flower Show, which is stronger than ever to reflect the changing climate and reduce its carbon footprint.
Opening to the public in west London on Tuesday, the event anticipates over 150,000 visitors. Ahead of the official opening, King Charles III, known for his environmental advocacy and fondness for conversing with plants, along with Queen Camilla, received an exclusive preview on Monday. Notably, the 75-year-old monarch, currently undergoing cancer treatment, visited a garden tailored for children, marking a first in the show’s 111-year history.
Under the stewardship of the Royal Horticultural Society, the Chelsea Flower Show has increasingly emphasized sustainability and biodiversity in recent years.
This year, stringent criteria were imposed on major garden designs to address concerns such as water conservation, waste management, and material usage. Consequently, these measures have resulted in a notable 20% reduction in carbon emissions, according to the organizers. Additionally, a new requirement stipulates that all showcased gardens must be adaptable for transfer to schools, hospitals, or other public spaces nationwide.
In an innovative twist, one of the gardens showcased at this year’s event exclusively employs recycled materials from previous Chelsea Flower Shows. However, fluctuating weather patterns, including a mild winter followed by an early spring and sudden cold spell, have compelled some garden designers to reassess their plans. Anne-Marie Powell, a designer, shared her challenges in sourcing local hawthorns and specific irises due to climate change-induced wilting.
Despite these hurdles, she remains optimistic, highlighting the opportunity for creative adaptation and experimentation. As a result, visitors can expect to encounter a diverse array of plant species not typically featured at the Chelsea Flower Show, indicative of the necessity to embrace change and innovation in response to environmental shifts.
