Arguably
the most outstanding horticultural show in the world, the
Chelsea Flower Show is held for just a few days each spring
in this suburb of London along the Thames River.
The Royal Horticultural Society
had sponsored similar events at other sites since the
mid-1800s. However, this show on the parking lot and grounds
of the Royal Hospital in Chelsea has been held yearly since 1922.
(Note: I am not sure about the years during WWII.)
Around 600 exhibitors
from around the
world build unique displays for the show including over 50 gardens in all shapes, sizes and styles and
over 100 floral exhibitors show a huge variety of plants in
pristine condition including introductions of new plants. There
are dozens of show gardens, each one created with attention to detail by
some of the world's leading garden designers. Smaller Chic,
Courtyard, City and Sunflower Street gardens show exactly what
can be achieved on modest sized plots. Exhibitors are
judged by a specialist judging panels before the show opens,
and awarded Gold, Silver-Gilt, Silver and Bronze Medals.
One of the amazing aspects of the show is that within only a few
days after it closes, the area is returned to its former
use...an empty parking lot.
Mr PGC has attended this wonderful event twice:
