Children took center stage at the Chelsea Flower Show in London, as a garden called 'RHS No Adults Allowed Garden' was unveiled. This garden, designed by 29 primary school pupils with the assistance of landscaper Harry Holding, aimed to promote gardening as a vital part of the school curriculum. The garden featured various elements such as a slide, tree house, rocks, mini woodland, meadow, wetland, and oversized tropical plants. It emphasized biodiversity and sustainable development, with no use of cement or concrete.
The garden was visited by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, who were presented with badges for their roles as 'King of the Compost' and 'Queen of the Bees.' The King expressed his joy in eating homegrown produce, stating that it tastes much better. The children's imaginative ideas for the garden included hidden doors, trap doors, and a crocodile, although some of these were scaled back due to practical constraints.
The Chelsea Flower Show, which expects over 150,000 visitors, usually excludes children under the age of five and charges full price for older children. However, this year, school children were invited to design their own garden and participate in the judging process. The event also introduced the Children's Choice award, which was won by the Octavia Hill garden designed by Ann-Marie Powell, focusing on adapting to climate change.
