The Chelsea Flower Show 2016 is just round the corner, so here are a few facts about it that you will find interesting:
Fact #1
The Royal Horticulture Society was formed back in 1804 and the show was originally known as the Royal Horticultural Society’s Great Spring Show, which was held at the RHS Garden in Kensington for the first time in 1862. The show was moved to its current location in 1913.
Fact #2
In 1926, the show was postponed for a week due to the General Strike.
Fact #3
In 1927, there was a huge campaign, which advocated that foreign exhibits should be denied as that would reduce competition. The RHS refused to that and said that horticulture is not restricted to nationality.
Fact #4
In 1928, the area experienced a fierce storm the night before the opening. However, the staff worked hard and the show commenced on time.
Fact #5
During the Second World War, the show was cancelled as the land was used as an anti-aircraft site. The show finally resumed in 1947, even though the war had officially ended in 1945.
Fact #6
Until the year 2000, the show was held under the great marquee that was mentioned in the Guinness Book of World Record for being the largest tent in the world. The tent was not used after that show and instead was used to make 7,000 jackets, bags and aprons.
Fact #7
The Great Pavilion covers 2.9 acres, which is large enough to accommodate 500 London buses.
Fact #8
98% of the materials used in the 2009 show were recycled. This includes glass, paper, and grass.
Fact #9
A show garden generally ranges in size from 10mx10m to 10mx22m.
Fact #10
Children under the age of 5 are not allowed.