Sponsored by Flood Re, the reimagined RHS Chelsea Flower Show flood resilient garden is a joint initiative with the UK government that provides a blueprint for how outdoor spaces can help reduce flooding risks.
Now located at Howbery park in Oxfordshire, the garden builds on last year’s RHS Chelsea silver-medal winning Flood Resilient Garden designed by Dr Ed Barsley and Naomi Slade.
Flood Re: The Flood Resilient Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024. Credit: RHS/Sarah Cuttle
The reimagined garden has also been designed by Dr Barsley, with additional landscaping and planting design by Belderbos Landscapes.
Built using specialist plaster, raised eclectic sockets and tiled floors, the intention of the space is to show a combination of functionality and aesthetics in garden design.
The new pond also acts as a sump to collect water and slowly allow it to drain away, while a smart rainwater tank allows remote drain-down ahead of predicted rainfall.
Dr Barsley reflects on RHS Chelsea:
“The original garden at the RHS Chelsea was a magical moment. In reimagining it for a permanent setting, we’ve worked hard to ensure it can endure and thrive for decades to come.”
The garden also supports the Build Back Better scheme, which enables policyholders to receive up to £10k towards the installation of flood resilient measures.