Each year, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show arrives like a breath of fresh air, transforming the heart of London into a vibrant celebration of horticultural artistry and innovation. The 2025 edition was no exception, captivating visitors and experts alike with a dazzling array of gardens that balanced tradition with cutting-edge design. Among those most eagerly anticipating the event were the team at The English Garden, whose deep expertise and passion for gardening lend a special perspective to the show’s highlights. Their favourite gardens of the year reveal much about current trends in garden design, planting choices, and the stories that resonate most deeply with gardeners today. 🌿🌷
One garden that stood out for the editorial team embraced a harmonious blend of sustainability and elegance. This garden illustrated how eco-conscious design need not sacrifice beauty, with native plants thoughtfully arranged alongside water-saving features and wildlife habitats. The team admired how the designer managed to create a space that felt both intimate and expansive, inviting visitors to linger and explore every corner. A contributor shared how this garden reminded her of a wildflower meadow near her childhood home, evoking a sense of nostalgia and grounding the contemporary design in a deeply personal connection.
Another standout display captured the team’s attention through its bold use of color and unexpected plant pairings. This garden challenged traditional notions by incorporating vibrant tropical species alongside classic English perennials, demonstrating the exciting possibilities of climate-resilient gardening. The way the designer balanced texture, height, and color created a dynamic tapestry that changed with every step. An editor recounted how witnessing this garden inspired her to rethink her own garden’s palette, encouraging her to experiment with more daring combinations that bring joy and surprise throughout the seasons.
The craftsmanship evident in the construction and detail of several gardens also drew high praise. From meticulously crafted water features to hand-built stone walls, the physical elements elevated the planting schemes, showcasing how garden design is an intricate art form. For the team, these features illustrated the vital role of skilled artisans in bringing garden visions to life, reminding gardeners that beauty often lies in the details. One contributor fondly recalled how a similar stone wall built by a local craftsman in her garden became a beloved focal point, inspiring visitors and adding character to her outdoor space. 🏡
Plant selection played a crucial role in many of the favourite gardens highlighted by The English Garden team. There was a clear emphasis on plants that offer multi-season interest, from vibrant spring blooms to autumnal foliage and winter structure. The chosen species balanced aesthetics with resilience, reflecting a growing trend toward sustainable, low-maintenance gardening. The team noted the increasing presence of drought-tolerant plants, recognizing their importance in adapting to changing climate conditions while maintaining visual impact.
One garden in particular impressed with its creative use of edible plants integrated seamlessly into ornamental beds. This approach resonated with a contributor who has championed edible gardening in her own life, blending productivity with beauty. She shared stories of how growing herbs and vegetables alongside flowers has enriched her gardening experience, turning her outdoor space into a source of nourishment and inspiration. This garden’s success at Chelsea reinforced the idea that edible landscapes are gaining rightful prominence in contemporary garden design.
The team also reflected on the emotional resonance of several gardens that told powerful stories. Whether commemorating historical events, celebrating cultural heritage, or highlighting conservation efforts, these spaces transcended mere horticulture. They invited reflection and connection, illustrating how gardens serve as living narratives that engage visitors on multiple levels. One editor was particularly moved by a garden dedicated to pollinator preservation, describing how it deepened her appreciation for the delicate interdependence between plants and wildlife in our ecosystems.
Innovative use of technology subtly enhanced several gardens without overshadowing their natural beauty. From smart irrigation systems that conserve water to integrated lighting that extends enjoyment into the evening, these elements showcased how modern tools can support sustainable gardening practices. The English Garden team welcomed this thoughtful integration, emphasizing that technology’s role should be to harmonize with nature rather than dominate it.
Throughout their reflections, the editorial team’s love for craftsmanship, innovation, and meaningful storytelling shines through. Their favourites reveal gardens that are not only visually stunning but also thoughtfully conceived to address contemporary concerns—from climate resilience to community engagement. The way these gardens inspired them personally adds a warm human dimension, reminding readers that great garden design touches hearts as well as eyes. 🌺
What emerges from The English Garden team’s selections is a vivid portrait of where gardening is headed: a balance of tradition and experimentation, ecology and artistry, function and emotion. Each garden chosen invites visitors to pause, explore, and imagine new possibilities for their own spaces, embodying the timeless magic of the Chelsea Flower Show.