Livinghouse

As we head into a mini heat wave, all thoughts turn to the garden. There is nothing like a little sunshine to make us enthuse about our outdoor space. And why not? We spend so much time indoors and good weather is a great booster. Vitamin D is good for us and sunshine is the best source.

Is your garden just how you want it? Or are you planning a makeover? Maybe you already have the hard landscaping in place and it’s now all about the planting. Whatever stage you’re at – even if you’re dreaming of a whole new garden plan – we have two of the UK’s favourite gardening shows coming our way in the next few weeks.

Inspirational gardening shows

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show will be here between 20^th – 24^th May and the Hampton Court Flower Show just six weeks later, 8^th – 13^th July. These two shows offer heaps of inspiration for your patch, whether it’s estate size or just a tiny courtyard.

You’ll find everything from design ideas to planting plans, from garden sheds and summer houses to tools to keep your garden ship-shape. Of course there are also plenty of garden furniture ideas or decorative accessories for your garden, from bird houses to garden spheres. One of the most unusual we’ve seen advertised this year is a crocheted gorilla! Probably more suited to an indoor perch than weathering the outdoor climate.

The Alan Titchmarsh effect

This year ‘everybody’s favourite garden expert’, Alan Titchmarsh is back at Chelsea, designing and building a garden. It’s his first time back in this role for 30 years. He’s collaborating with RHS Britain in Bloom, which is celebrating its 50^th anniversary – just as Titchmarsh celebrates 50 years in horticulture.

Inspirational planting

His garden is called ‘From the Moors to the Sea’ covering his own personal journey from his native Yorkshire to the Isle of Wight where he has a holiday home. His garden should capture many different plants that will flourish in different areas.

How much is it worth?

Whether you are looking for the natural effect or something more sculptured, you can bet you’ll find something you love at these shows. If you haven’t already secured tickets for Chelsea, you’re unfortunately not likely to get in as general tickets are sold out. However, they are still selling Premium Tickets for the Thursday and Friday. These will set you back £400 a piece but will give you fast track entry and re-entry to the show. The Friday tickets also include the Twilight concert. Some might think they are worth it just for re-entry after 4pm on Saturday in time for the grand plant sale! All proceeds from these tickets go to support the RHS apprenticeship scheme.

Beware of deals on the blackmarket – tickets for Chelsea were fetching as much as £575 several days ago with no special perks …. best watch it from the comfort of your own home in that case. There will be plenty of coverage on the TV throughout the week.