A behind the scenes trip to Chelsea
Smoke, Mirrors and a Paintbrush!
I have had a really exciting May. Along with my designs being started to be made this month I was lucky enough to work at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show!
I've always loved going to show for inspiration and have been going for more than 15 years now. When I found out that a designer, Camellia Taylor, near to me, was designing and building a garden I got in touch with her to offer a helping hand. I'm very pleased she said yes.
Honestly I was a bit anxious as I had not been behind the scenes at a show garden. When I arrived on the Monday morning the pavilion was a hive of activity. A lot of the hard landscaping had been done, the trees had been put in place (nearly touching the roof) and there were trolleyfulls of plants. I hadnt appreciated the lack of space. Of course with so many exhibts there is machinery, materials and people everywhere.
Our first task was to "clean" plants. I was a little perplexed what this would entail but it was to go through each plant to remove any damaged or diseased material. Every plant has to look it's best. My days of Quality Inspection in the Aerospace industry sted me in a good light here.
My next job was to wrap Siberican Iris blooms in cotton wool to stop them opening before the show. I can honestly say this has been one of the scariest tasks I have undertaken in horticulture. I was so worried I would break one!
When I left on the Tuesday the team were starting to put the plants in situ... in the pots! I don't believe that they all got left in the pots but apprarently its common to put compost underneath, remove the pot rim and then disguise the top with more compost.
I couldn't stay for longer during the week (domestic and design duties calling). I returned on the Saturday for the pre-judging. This is when the judges first visit the garden to start to assess it against its design brief. The pressure was on!
Camellias garden was sponsored by Project Giving for the charity aspens. Part of the support was a lady who mentored the designers in their design (peri-menopausal moment, no idea what her name is now!). Part of the design was dry stone wall around the front of the garden and gravel strategically placed at the edge. She provided the feedback that it would look more natural if the gravel went further back into the planting.
So my job was to gently prise plants apart, while Camellia gently added compost and/ or gravel. Then I would gently brush any dust and debris off the plants. I didn't ever think I would need a paintbrush gardening!
I had an amazing time and absolutely loved meeting new like minded people. I was very priveledged to have seen a lot of the show gardens without the throngs of crowds. I'm in total awe of show gardens. They are more works of art than a garden. I feel that the landscapers need more of the glory and recognition though. Their work is truly outstanding.
We can't all have Chelsea worthy gardens but we can take inspiration from it. If you have felt inspired and want to add design intent to your outdoor space get in touch. Email me at catriona@catrionastiles.co.uk
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