Garden inspiration from Chelsea Flower Show 2025
Reflections and ideas to try in your own garden.
It’s been 12 years since my last visit to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, and I can honestly say it was worth the wait. It’s such a powerful reminder of the creativity, care and innovation going on in the world of garden design.
There’s so much I could say, but I’ve picked out a few key takeaways that I think are both inspiring and useful for us here in Scotland — whether you have a balcony space full of pots or a big back garden.
Colour stories that sing
One of the big things that caught my eye was the use of rich, earthy colours — bronzes, plums, purples and soft pinks. This palette feels warm and contemporary and works beautifully with both lush greens and softer grasses. Some of my favourite planting combinations included:
Lupin ‘Masterpiece’ – dramatic and sculptural
Digitalis lutea – a softer, yellow foxglove that adds a naturalistic touch
Rodgersia ‘Chocolate Wing’ – big, bold foliage with a deep bronze hue
Dryopteris erythrosora – a fern with coppery new fronds, great in shady corners
It’s always interesting to see which plants the RHS crown as their “Plant of the Year”, and this year’s winner didn’t disappoint: Philadelphus ‘Petite Perfume Pink’ – a beautifully fragrant dwarf mock orange that’s ideal for smaller gardens or pots. It had a flower like a Clematis, and was really petite and perfect.
Structure through foliage and trees
As much as we all love flowers, it’s the foliage that quietly packs the punch in a garden over a long period. This year, there was a clear emphasis on textural, long-lasting foliage that brings interest throughout the growing season. Think bronze fennel, Anthriscus sylvestris ‘Ravenswing’ and Actaea simplex ‘Brunette’ – all excellent for adding contrast and softness to planting schemes.
And let’s talk about trees! One of the big reminders for me was how brilliant multi-stemmed trees are in small gardens. Whether it’s a crab apple, Amelanchier or silver birch, a well-placed tree can give your garden height, structure and a sense of scale that actually makes the space feel bigger. So don’t be worried to include a tree in your garden, even if it is a small space. The important thing is that you choose the RIGHT tree - one that delivers over a long period, either through blossoms and berries, or a beautiful winter bark.
Garden art that tells a story
I was really drawn to the use of sculptures and ornaments at this year’s Chelsea. Some of my favourites were inspired by animals or nature: hares, horses, birds, and even a few striking natural boulders, stacked on top of each other.
A good sculpture, paired with the right planting, gives your garden personality. It can be subtle or bold — the key is choosing something meaningful to you and giving it room to breathe.
Sustainable design in action
I loved seeing more designers embracing sustainability in practical and beautiful ways. One standout idea was the use of gabion baskets filled with natural materials like stone and logs to create functional elements like tables and seating.
There was also a return to more naturalistic planting, with wildflowers and even so-called “weeds” like buttercup, Valerian officinalis, and dock cleverly woven into traditional garden settings. These combinations weren’t just environmentally sound — they were stunning. I really believe this is the future of planting design.
A little final thought
The biggest thing Chelsea reminded me of is this: our gardens are living, breathing spaces. They evolve. They shift with the seasons. And they’re always full of potential.
Whether you’re designing a whole new space or just thinking about adding a new plant or two, it’s worth taking the time to get inspired — visit a garden, talk to a gardener, flick through your photos and ask yourself what feels right.
I’d love to hear what’s inspiring you this season — drop me an email or come chat over on Instagram!
👉 Follow me here
Nicola
The Bonnie Gardener
nicola@thebonniegardener.co.uk
