The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has lifted its longstanding ban on gnomes at the Chelsea Flower Show for only the second time in the event's history, allowing a parade of celebrity-decorated garden ornaments to take centre stage.
Celebrity-Designed Gnomes
Actress Cate Blanchett and Queen guitarist Sir Brian May are among the stars who have decorated gnomes that will be displayed among the floral exhibits. Other contributors include Alan Titchmarsh, Dame Mary Berry, Tom Allen, Dame Joanna Lumley, and Bill Bailey.
Charity Auction
Visitors and gardening enthusiasts can bid on these unique gnomes in an online auction running from Friday until Sunday, May 24. All proceeds will support the RHS Campaign for School Gardening, which provides resources for children to learn through gardening, developing practical skills and environmental awareness.
Gnomes in the Gardens
Show attendees will also spot gnomes in the RHS and The King's Foundation Curious Garden, designed with input from King Charles, Sir David Beckham, and Alan Titchmarsh. This feature reflects a tradition at Highgrove Garden, where a gnome often resides in The Stumpery.
Historic Ban Lifted
The RHS has enforced a gnome ban throughout most of the show's history, with the first exception occurring in 2013 for the centenary. This second lifting underscores the importance of the charitable cause.
Clare Matterson, RHS director general, stated: "We are delighted to lift the ban on gnomes for such an important cause. RHS Chelsea is our biggest charitable fundraiser, and this auction will enable us to support thousands of children to discover the joy and benefits of gardening."
Sold-Out Show
The RHS also announced that the Chelsea Flower Show has sold out its 150,000 tickets before opening to the public for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic forced cancellation in 2020 and a delayed autumn event in 2021. Matterson called the sell-out "great for gardening."
Funds raised will support community gardening programmes across the UK and scientific research addressing climate change. This year's show gardens include themes such as "forgotten forests," the Eden Project North in Morecambe, flood resilience for homeowners, and community cohesion.
