5 Gardening Trends from RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024

Mud Mountain Blog

Olive Jar in garden setting

It’s been a week or so since RHS Chelsea Flower Show closed its doors for another year; in what was the usual spectacular display of horticultural innovation and creativity.

While the garden designs at Chelsea aren't always feasible to recreate, taking inspiration from some of the trends that featured at the show is a great way of injecting life into your own gardens. Whether you have a sprawling estate or a compact urban space, let's explore five standout trends from RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024.

Small trees

Small trees were a prominent feature at this year's show, making a big impact in designer gardens. From potted fern trees to birch and pine varieties, these trees add structure and elegance. For those with limited space, small trees can thrive in large terracotta pots, which provide both a stable growing environment and a stylish aesthetic. Our range of handmade Italian terracotta pots are ideal for this purpose; their durability and style ensure your trees remain protected year-round, while their classic design can enhance any garden.

Cilindro Liscio terracotta pot
Due Orli terracotta pot

Enchanted forest gardens

Creating an enchanted forest garden was another take-home trend from the show, characterised by lush greenery, layered planting, and serene wildlife ponds. An aesthetic which is both visually stunning and easy to maintain. Forest gardens often feature various plant layers, from ground cover to tree canopies. To bring this trend into your own garden, consider using antique oil jars from our Impruneta orcio collection. These handmade Italian jars, with their natural earthy tones, can blend seamlessly into a forest garden, providing both functionality and a touch of rustic charm.

antique terracotta oil jar

Embracing natural materials

A noticeable trend at this year’s show was the use of natural materials in garden design. From wooden structures to stone pathways, these materials bring a sense of authenticity and sustainability to outdoor spaces. The Octavia Hill Garden showcased a beautiful blend of warm York pavers, vermillion clay setts, and fine gravel, demonstrating that you can create a high-end look without breaking the bank. Our garden stoneware pieces fit perfectly with this trend, offering a striking visual aesthetic that will complement any natural setting. 

roman stoneware planter
Chinese Guardian Lions

Wellbeing gardens

Wellbeing gardens focused on creating peaceful, reflective spaces. This trend is about designing areas where you can relax and connect with nature. At the show, these gardens featured private nooks, sensory planting, and serene settings. To replicate this at home, think about incorporating seating areas surrounded by calming plants. Our stunning terracotta pots and planters can be used to plant fragrant herbs or colourful flowers, adding to the sensory experience; their elegant design, providing a focal point that invites relaxation and contemplation.

galestro clat table and bench

Low-maintenance native plants

The trend towards low-maintenance, native plants is perfect for gardeners looking to reduce upkeep while supporting local ecosystems. Native plants are adapted to the local climate and require less water and care. Gardens at Chelsea highlighted the use of hardy ferns and bog myrtle, demonstrating how these plants can create lush, vibrant spaces. Beautiful stoneware planters are ideal for growing these types of flora, their unique rustic aesthetic complementing the native plants, helping to create a cohesive and sustainable garden design.

Westonbirt Urn on Georgian Pedestal
square stone planter
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