Chelsea Flower Show 2022

Discover the vibrant "Planet Studio" at Chelsea Flower Show 2022, designed by gold winning designer James Whiting.

Showcasing a unique twist on houseplant artistry, sponsored by Sowvital.

Hosted annually by the Royal Horticultural Society in London, the Chelsea Flower Show is a gathering of all things botanical.

From experienced growers and rare varieties, to gardens produced and designed by some of the best in the business, it is sure to have something for an Avant Gardener to appreciate.

The show began in 1913, replacing the RHS's former event at Kensington, and quickly became a key fixture in the British social calendar. Over the decades, the Chelsea Flower Show has been renowned for setting gardening trends and featuring bold, creative landscapes.

Throughout its history, it has adapted to reflect changing attitudes towards sustainability, biodiversity, and environmental responsibility.

 
The introduction of the Houseplant Studios section at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show marked a significant and modern addition to the event, reflecting the rising popularity of houseplants, particularly among younger generations.

First introduced in 2021, the section highlights the growing trend of indoor gardening and the aesthetic and wellbeing benefits of houseplants.

Houseplant Studios brought a fresh, contemporary vibe to the Chelsea Flower Show, offering immersive and creative indoor spaces designed to inspire visitors with innovative ways to incorporate plants into their homes.

Each studio is designed by horticulturalists and interior stylists, blending artistic flair with practical advice on plant care and decoration.
 

The section also responds to the urbanisation of modern living, where many people lack outdoor garden spaces but still seek a connection to nature.

Houseplants have become a popular way to enhance indoor environments, improving air quality, reducing stress, and adding beauty to compact living spaces.

Since its debut, Houseplant Studios has become a key part of the show, with interactive exhibits, workshops, and a focus on sustainability and low-maintenance greenery.

It has helped broaden the appeal of the Chelsea Flower Show, making it more accessible to younger, city-dwelling audiences and showcasing the versatility of plants beyond traditional garden settings.

In 2022, Sowvital supported two time gold medal winning designer James Whiting in his production of Planet Studio, a colourful spin on a houseplant studio, inspired by the iconic Studio 54.

Planet Studio reimagined the traditional Kew Victoria Garden Room, turning it into a modern garden bar and entertainment space for those seeking a taste of city nightlife in their own backyards.

The venue catered to both plants and people, offering a unique experience that included a plant-inspired coat check, a bar stocked with supplies for houseplant care and propagation, and drink fridges designed like grow houses. Once refreshed, the houseplants joined visitors on the dance floor for a "botanical boogie."

Whiting collaborated with a diverse group of creatives he met throughout his time working in London. Each brought their expertise from various disciplines, contributing to the design through bespoke ceramics, sustainable fashion, specialist fungi, mural art, and lighting.