By Melissa O’Brien 

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024, one of the most prestigious horticultural events in the world, recently wrapped up, showcasing stunning garden designs, emerging trends, and a vibrant atmosphere. PHS’s own Seth Pearsoll, Creative Director and Vice President for the Philadelphia Flower Show, had the pleasure of experiencing this year’s show and reflecting on the ideas that are inspiring garden designers right now. Here’s a comprehensive recap of the event, highlighting the key takeaways and trends that emerged. 

A Glimpse into the Chelsea Experience 

Attending the Chelsea Flower Show is an unforgettable experience. The event is not just a display of floral beauty; it is a convergence of art, nature, and innovation that inspired PHS's two outdoor Flower Shows in 2021 and 2022. Unlike many garden shows that focus mainly on competitive floral arrangements, Chelsea also features a wide array of trade stands showcasing everything from outdoor patio furniture to garden sculptures and fountains. This setup allows for an integrated experience, where visitors can both enjoy and purchase elements to recreate the Chelsea magic in their own gardens. 

Major Highlights and Memorable Exhibits 

Children Lead the Way 

One of the standout features this year was the RHS "No Adults Allowed" garden, designed by Harry Holding in collaboration with students from the Sulivan School. This colorful, kid-friendly garden emphasized the importance of involving younger generations in gardening. It was a refreshing reminder that gardening can be playful, imaginative, and accessible to all ages. At the Philadelphia Flower Show, we share this belief in nurturing children's curiosity about the natural world, which is why we created Kid’s Cocoon. This interactive space allows kids to get their hands dirty and discover the wonders of gardening. Seeing this concept mirrored in a real garden reaffirms our approach and inspires us to continue fostering a love for nature in young minds. 

The Great Pavilion 

The heart of the Chelsea Flower Show is the Great Pavilion, a massive temporary structure where the top nurseries in the UK and the world come to exhibit their pristine plants to millions of visitors and TV viewers at home. In addition to spectacular floral installations and creations, the Great Pavilion also featured educational gardens, providing a horticultural festival vibe where enthusiasts could learn and get inspired by the diverse plant specimens on display.  

The Freedom from Torture Garden 

The award-winning “Freedom from Torture Garden: A Sanctuary for Survivors” was notable for its striking use of organic willow to divide the space and its blend of art and horticulture. Designed by John Warland & Emma O’Connell, it served as a poignant reminder of the therapeutic and transformative power of gardens to heal and restore survivors on their journey to recovery. 

Emerging Trends in Garden Design 

The 2024 Chelsea Flower Show confirmed several trends that were also emergent as top trends from the 2024 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show, and are shaping the future of garden design. Below is what Seth saw that will have a wide impact. 

1. Rewilding

This concept continues to gain momentum, with designers opting for informal, wild plant pairings that create a more natural and less structured look. These designs often include pollinator-friendly plants and emphasize biodiversity. 

2. Sustainability and Upcycling

Many exhibits showcased innovative ways to garden sustainably. This included the use of 3D-printed materials and upcycled garden elements, which not only reduced waste but also introduced unique textures and forms into garden design. 

3. Children’s Engagement

There was a significant focus on creating gardens that engage children’s senses, encouraging them to interact with nature. These gardens often featured elements that could be touched, smelled, and explored, fostering a connection between the younger generation and the natural world. 

4. Climate-Resilient Planting

With the ongoing conversation around climate change, there was a noticeable shift towards selecting plants that are resilient to future climatic conditions.  

5. Less Formality, More Nature

The trend towards less formal, more naturalistic gardens was evident. Designers favored big, free-flowing gestures over rigid, formal layouts, creating spaces that felt more like wild, untouched landscapes rather than manicured gardens. 

Takeaways for Gardeners 

The key takeaway from both the Chelsea and Philadelphia Flower Shows is the accessibility and inclusivity of gardening. Whether through engaging children, embracing rewilding, or planning for future climates, the message is clear: gardening is for everyone. As Seth eloquently put it, "Gardening is a big, huge open thing that you can find yourself in." 

Looking ahead, the future of horticulture and garden design appears to be moving towards less formality and more naturalistic, imperfect beauty. This shift is evident in both shows and promises exciting developments for gardeners worldwide.