The RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025, running from May 20–24, showcases 23 notable gardens, embracing innovation, sustainability, and social impact.
Here are five standout gardens you shouldn’t miss:
1. The Glasshouse Garden by Jo Thompson
This garden celebrates the transformative effect of second chances through horticulture, inspired by The Glasshouse programme, which supports women nearing the end of their prison sentences.
An immersive space centered around a translucent elliptical pavilion emerging from the foliage, the garden is full of sensory delights. Jewel-like colors and fragrant flowers sway to the sound of water from a narrow rill winding through the space, ending in a tranquil pool.
2. The Avanade ‘Intelligent’ Garden by Tom Massey and Je Ahn
This garden utilises AI technology to feed data back to the owner about conditions in the garden, making it easier for people to garden more sustainably.
The garden includes a curated selection of climate-resilient plants and trees, monitored by AI. Practical garden elements of seating, water features, and paving have been given a unique twist through the use of unusual materials, approaches, and an abundance of traditional craftsmanship.
3. The British Rainforest Garden by Zoe Claymore
This garden aims to evoke the lush, wet woodland that once swathed the west coast of Britain, the Isle of Man, and the island of Ireland. It provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about this precious habitat and be inspired to support its restoration.
Features include a raised walkway transporting visitors over moss-covered ground past a tumbling waterfall, a leaning silver birch tree symbolising nature’s resilience, and a fern and moss wall spanning the entire width of the garden.
4. The Garden of the Future by Matthew Butler and Josh Parker
Set in a near-future scenario where climate threats are increasing, this garden demonstrates how innovation and collaboration can support our planet and empower farmers to adapt and thrive.
Planting spills over the roof of a rammed-earth building, surrounded by beds of climate-resilient crops and ornamentals. A dip tank is part of a rainwater harvesting system integral to the climate-friendly design.
5. The London Square Chelsea Pensioners Garden by Dave Green
For the first time, a garden was co-designed with the Chelsea Pensioners, retired soldiers residing at the Royal Hospital Chelsea. The design reflects both public and private aspects of their lives, featuring a communal bench made from recycled uniforms and a wheelchair-accessible woodland area, fostering connection and reflection
The woodland space, filled with striking trees and a sheltered, central seating area, includes vibrant planting to reflect the ceremonial life and stories of the Pensioners.
Chelsea Flower Show 2025 showcases a blend of innovation, sustainability, and social impact. These five gardens exemplify the show’s commitment to addressing contemporary issues through horticultural excellence. Whether you’re drawn to cutting-edge technology, environmental conservation, or social narratives, this year’s show offers something for every garden enthusiast.
Read more about Who are the 2025 RHS Chelsea Sustainable Excellence Awards 2025 Finalist and follow Garden-Review 2025 Chelsea Coverage
For more information on the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and its sustainability initiatives, visit the official RHS website.
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