Secure a complimentary ticket to the Chelsea Flower Show, typically by female individuals.
A Glimpse into the Heart of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show
When South African gardener Kim van Niekerk received a call from Korean garden designer Ji-hae Hwang for help on her 2023 RHS Chelsea garden, A Letter from a Million Years Past, she didn't think twice before hopping on a plane to London. Having worked together on a previous show garden a decade ago, Kim felt it was a priceless opportunity she couldn't miss.
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Volunteering at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show is far more than just a free pass to the iconic event. It provides an unparalleled insight into the workings of the show, as well as the satisfaction of contributing to something remarkable.
With around 230 RHS volunteers contributing to the event this year, roles range from sharing information about RHS feature gardens to helping visitors locate exhibits and plants. Each exhibitor also brings their own team composed of staff, contractors, and volunteers who must adhere to the RHS's guidelines on health and safety.
One of the vital roles for volunteers is supporting planting teams. Susie Challen, a design graduate from The English Gardening School, assisted on Richard Miers' Perennial Garden 'With Love' in 2022, alongside the paid planting team. "Be prepared for hard, physical work," says Susie.
It's not just about garden maintenance - volunteering for Plant Fairs Roadshow at Pelham Plants nursery last year, GP and horticulture trainee Philip Rankin was involved in every aspect, from growing plants to staffing the stand and selling them off after the show. "Being a part of Chelsea gave me a deeper appreciation for the work and planning that goes into it," Philip says.
Join Jane Porter's planting team for Nigel Dunnett's Hospitalfield Arts Garden this year, or assist established garden designers like Jo Thompson or Gillian Goodson - their valuable experience and expertise ensure a nurturing atmosphere for volunteers while making their contribution essential.
However, it's essential to remember that volunteering is not without its complexities. People on lower incomes and those with familial responsibilities may find it challenging to participate due to time or financial constraints. Additionally, while the role of volunteers is indispensable, the question of whether they should be remunerated arises. 4-time Gold medal winner at Chelsea Jo Thompson emphasizes that while there's a place for volunteers, individual designers must allocate part of the budget to pay their core planting teams.
Garden designers and horticulturists have a shared responsibility to ensure that volunteers are treated well and properly supported, providing breaks and resources to ensure they enjoy the experience fully. Event organizers should prioritize the care and development of their volunteers, recognizing their vital role in the success and reputation of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
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- Kim van Niekerk, a South African gardener, will be working alongside Korean garden designer Ji-hae Hwang on her 2023 RHS Chelsea garden, A Letter from a Million Years Past.
- Volunteering for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show offers an unparalleled insight into the workings of the show, and the opportunity to contribute to something remarkable.
- Susie Challen, a design graduate from The English Gardening School, assisted on Richard Miers' Perennial Garden 'With Love' in 2022, lending her help alongside the paid planting team.
- People on lower incomes and those with familial responsibilities may find it challenging to participate in volunteering due to time or financial constraints.
- Event organizers should prioritize the care and development of their volunteers, recognizing their vital role in the success and reputation of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
