2013 saw the publication of the best-selling RHS Chelsea Flower Show: a Centenary Celebration. This new paperback edition for 2014 captures the magic of the 2013 show by revealing the best gardens, people, plants and events that made the show so memorable. From the first admission of gnomes to the Royal Hospital showground to controversial judging and Prince Harry's commemorative garden, this book documents the best of the 2013 show to provide an up to date analysis of what makes Chelsea special. For 101 years, RHS Chelsea Flower Show has been the annual event in the world of horticulture. Royal Horticultural Society insider Brent Elliott explains how the show has grown and changed, how it is has formed part of the social calendar and how the nation's taste in garden design and planting has been reflected and shaped by Chelsea over the years. Short pieces from some of our greatest nurserymen, nurserywomen and garden designers describe what Chelsea means to them, along with pieces from those who present the show to the public and those behind the scenes who pull it all together. A wealth of illustration draws from the extensive RHS archive and includes photographs in colour and black and white, plans and posters, many published here for the first time. Whether you come for the nurseries or the show gardens, to buy gardening gloves or foxgloves, or whether you simply prefer to beat the crowds and read all about it, this magnificent book conjures up the full Chelsea experience.

Author Biography

BRENT ELLIOTT can reasonably claim to be the world expert on the history of Chelsea Flower Show. He is librarian and archivist to the Royal Horticultural Society and author of numerous articles and books. He has written introductions and captions to the RHS diaries (published by Frances Lincoln) since 1993.