The nation’s favourite gardening experts will return to the BBC to provide special programming celebrating the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
Chelsea highlights
Alongside new footage from the show’s established presenters programming will showcase highlights from the festival over the past decade. Shows will air from 17-24 May on BBC One and BBC Two.
This year’s actual show has been cancelled due to Coronavirus.
New footage
The special series of programmes will include new footage fronted by Sophie Raworth, Joe Swift, Nicki Chapman and Monty Don. There is also a themed compilation of clips showing the best of the Chelsea Flower Show over the past decade.
New element
In addition, for the first time the show will also offer an opportunity for viewers to get involved; as they vote for their Garden of the Decade in the BBC/RHS People’s Choice Award.
There will also be new input and advice from the Chelsea Flower Show team’s much admired experts including: Adam Frost, Carol Klein, Rachel De Thame, Toby Buckland, Mark Lane, France Tophill and Arit Anderson.
The programming includes:
- Sunday 17 and Sunday 24 May (BBC One) – Two 60 minute programmes presented by Sophie Raworth and Joe Swift
- Monday 18 – Friday 22 May (BBC One) – 45 minutes a day presented by Nicki Chapman
- Monday 18 – Friday 22 May (BBC Two) – 60 minutes a day presented by Monty Don and Joe Swift
“Seeing beautiful gardens and gorgeous plants is just what everyone needs right now and The RHS Chelsea Flower Show always has the finest on offer”, Joe Swift said.
Creating the ‘Chelsea buzz’
“It’s going to be tough without it this year (I haven’t missed one for 30 years), but it’s not going to stop us bringing you some fabulous footage to create that special Chelsea buzz.
“It’ll be the ‘best of the best’ as we look back at over a decade of fabulous gardens, stunning designs and sumptuous plants.
“There’s a first too as viewers will have a chance to vote for their Garden of the Decade in the BBC/RHS People’s Choice Award. I’m getting excited already.”
Catherine Catton, Commissioning Editor, Head of Popular Factual and Factual Entertainment said: “Now more than ever people need the joy of gardening and horticulture in their lives and the BBC’s celebration of Chelsea Flower Show will provide viewers with much needed escapism and practical tips for their own gardens.”
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show programming is produced by BBC Studios. It was commissioned for the BBC by Catherine Catton, Commissioning Editor, Factual Formats and Events; and Lindsay Bradbury, Commissioning Editor, Daytime and Early Peak.
It will be executive produced by Paolo Proto for BBC Studios.