In 2013, in a North Lincolnshire kitchen, pea farmer Ben Branson began experimenting with a copper still after reading about the non-alcoholic remedies distilled by apothecaries in the 1600s. Ben's family have been farming for 300 years and their peas are picked by hand by Ben and his team. His kitchen experimentation led to the … Continue reading In Praise of the Humble Pea: The Seedlip Garden
Chris Beardshaw recently said that he felt Chelsea show gardens should only be accepted if they were going to be relocated afterwards. It seems that other designers may be following his lead as this year's show sees more of the gardens and planting being relocated than ever before. The recipients of the gardens are diverse; … Continue reading Health, Wellbeing and Sustainability at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show
The attention to detail in the 2018 Chelsea Flower Show gardens surpasses anything I've seen before; I love the way the planting maintains a sophisticated and elegant feel, yet is more grounded than in previous years. Many gardens focus on naturalistic forms and soft planting with coppery tones, highlights of deep purples and pinks, and … Continue reading RHS Chelsea Flower Show Highlights
Returning home from Chelsea yesterday and on waking this morning my main recollections of the show were all infused with colour, my brain still awash with the contrasts and blends which lent a particular character to each garden and plant exhibit. I've been entertained, surprised and soothed by the colours of Chelsea in the past and there's no doubt … Continue reading Planting Palettes: Reflections on RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2016