Behind the Blooms: The Magic of Chelsea Flower Show

Set in the leafy grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show has been the crown jewel of the British gardening calendar since 1913. Organised by the Royal Horticultural Society, the UK’s leading gardening charity, the show champions excellence in horticulture and garden design. With floral displays as far as the eye can see and the best in garden design from across the globe, it’s where world-class landscape designers, plant nurseries, sculptors, and garden brands come to shine. Adding to its unique charm, the Chelsea Pensioners - retired British Army veterans who reside at the Royal Hospital - play a proud and visible role each year, warmly welcoming visitors and embodying the history and spirit of the show.

From elegant show gardens to creative floral installations, there’s inspiration at every turn and it's not uncommon to spot a few famous faces among the greenery, with everyone from royalty to actors and fashion icons attending. It was the perfect stage for the Birdie Fortescue brand and a chance to showcase our garden-inspired collaboration in the sun… and of course, a splash of rain!

Taking Centre Stage: The Nasturtium Collection

Taking centre stage at Chelsea Flower Show, the Nasturtium Collection brought the spirit of the English summer garden to life - it captivated so many wonderful visitors with its bold styling and joyful energy.

Blending Butter's love of eclectic tablescaping with Birdie’s signature style, it combines bold patterns, lively colours, and playful details. The collection brings Butter’s vibrant, layered aesthetic into both home and garden – just in time for the start of summer.

With alfresco dining and sun-soaked afternoons on the horizon, the collection features a selection of accessories and soft furnishings designed to elevate outdoor entertaining and also bring the outdoors in. From floral table linens and hand-painted planters to decorative glassware and playful cushions, every piece on the stand was thoughtfully curated to evoke the pleasures of outdoor entertaining.

With its dining accessories, lighting, table linens and soft furnishings The Nasturtium Collection is a celebration of creativity, character, and charm – all inspired by Butter’s favourite summer flower (yes, the nasturtium!).

A Magical Press Evening

To celebrate, we hosted a fabulous press event where our brilliant guests arrived in the evening sun and raised a glass to the collaboration as we shared the story behind the collection. Butter gave a tablescaping masterclass, demonstrating her passion and skill for creating beautiful and vibrant arrangements of undulating summer flowers amongst our Natsurium collection.  Guests took their turn joining in on the fun which resulted in the perfect evening.

A Four-Star First!

Even more reason to celebrate: we were blown away and completely thrilled to be given a prestigious 4 Star Trade zstand Award, presented by the Royal Horticultural Society. This incredible recognition is a testament to the passion, creativity, and hard work poured into every detail of our display – and we couldn’t be more proud!

The whole team was delighted, and it gave us a real boost for the week ahead.

Highlights and Horticultural Glamour

Of course, we couldn’t not mention one of our garden highlights – and Birdie’s personal favourite garden of the week: Kazuyuki Ishihara’s Cha no Niwa – Japanese Tea Garden. This tranquil, exquisitely detailed garden was a true masterclass in harmony and craftsmanship. From the delicate mossy mounds to the trickling water feature and perfectly placed stones, every inch was considered, it was a real pocket of peace amidst the Chelsea bustle. Not only did it receive a well-deserved Gold medal, but Ishihara-san was also surprised with the prestigious Garden of the Year award by RHS Director General Clare Matterson.

We also loved The London Square Chelsea Pensioners Garden by Dave Green. Designed as a place for reflection and connection, it featured vibrant planting, elegant trees, and a central seating area – a fitting tribute to the stories of the Chelsea Pensioners.

Beyond that, there was inspiration at every turn. The David Austin Roses display was as romantic as ever, and impossible to walk past without a double take. A true Chelsea classic. Frank P Matthews stood out with a beautiful display of rare and sculptural trees.

Behind the blooms: What Happens to the Flowers After the Show?

After the RHS Chelsea Flower Show ends, many plants and flowers are sold off to the public during the lively “Chelsea sell-off” on the final day. Others are donated or relocated to community gardens, hospitals, or schools, giving the displays a second life. Hard landscaping materials are often reused, and with a strong focus on sustainability, exhibitors are encouraged to recycle or repurpose everything they can – ensuring the magic of Chelsea lives on well beyond the show.

Until Next Year…

All in all, it was an unforgettable few days – full of inspiration, colour, and connection. We loved meeting so many of you, sharing what we’ve been working on, and soaking up everything this incredible show has to offer.

To everyone who visited, supported, and celebrated with us – thank you so much! Your enthusiasm has been the highlight of our Chelsea journey.