Chelsea with a difference

Landmark show returns with new plants in a new season

- Ruth hayes

AFTER a year of absence – for the first time since the Second World War – RHS Chelsea Flower Show is roaring back, but things are still not quite the same.

Due to Covid restrictions back in May, when the show traditionally takes place, the RHS took the decision to move its landmark event at the Royal Hospital Chelsea to the early autumn.

RHS Chelsea 2021 is now taking place from Tuesday-Sunday, 21-26 September, and because of the change of season there will be a host of different flowers on show.

Instead of foxgloves and alliums, visitors will see late-flowering bulbs, salvias and grasses take centre stage in the Great Pavilion, with the emphasis this year firmly on showcasing the very best in autumn horticulture.

A spokesman for the show said: “The later date welcomes both new plants and exhibitors for the first time to Chelsea, bringing a range of late-flowering varieties at their finest.

“To help visitors feel secure this year, the show is taking place over six days instead of the traditional five, some of the fixed catering structures have been moved, and of course there will be more space for people to circulate to improve social distancing.