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Preparing for Chelsea

The Journey to Full Bloom

For David Austin Roses, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show is the defining moment of our year. It represents months of preparation, horticultural precision and a shared passion for the English Rose. With 29 Gold Medals to our name, the pressure to evolve is always there, but our focus remains on creating a garden that feels authentic and enduring.

The Design: A Vision by David J.C. Austin

This year’s garden is designed by our Chairman, David J.C. Austin. Having led the creative direction of our displays for many years, his approach is rooted in an intimate understanding of how roses behave in a landscape.

The recently revealed render of the stand shows a shift toward a more structured, Cotswold-inspired aesthetic. It features a circular layout that encourages exploration rather than just observation. By using warm stone walls and gates inspired by the historic Wollerton Old Hall, the design provides a solid, architectural frame for the abundance of the planting.

Precision Growing

The roses you see at the show are the result of a rigorous selection process that begins in the height of winter. We choose mature specimens for their strength and form, then move them into dedicated glasshouses and polytunnels.

Managing the timing is an exact science. Our nursery team monitors light and temperature daily to ensure the roses reach peak bloom for show week. If the weather turns warm, we move plants to shade houses to hold them back; if it stays cool, we find ways to encourage them. The goal is to present plants that look established and healthy, as if they have been part of the landscape for years.

The Construction

Building the garden in London takes over a week of intensive manual work. From laying the Cotswold stone to hand-planting every shrub and climber, the process is demanding. The team works right up until the final moments before judging to ensure every detail of the render is brought to life with precision.

Continuing the Legacy

This year is a significant milestone for us as we mark what would have been the 100th birthday of our founder, David C.H. Austin. His lifelong commitment to the rose remains the foundation of everything we do today.

The garden also serves as the stage for our newest variety, Sir David Beckham. Much like the garden itself, this rose was bred for strength and longevity, reflecting our commitment to plants that return faithfully year after year and grow in beauty over time.

Visit the Garden
If you’re visiting Chelsea, please stop by the Great Pavilion at stand GPF075. It’s the perfect place to lose yourself in the fragrance and colour for a moment, and we’d love for you to see our newest varieties exactly as they’re meant to be seen, planted, established and in full flower.
Visit the Garden
If you’re visiting Chelsea, please stop by the Great Pavilion at stand GPF075. It’s the perfect place to lose yourself in the fragrance and colour for a moment, and we’d love for you to see our newest varieties exactly as they’re meant to be seen, planted, established and in full flower.
Visit the Garden
If you’re visiting Chelsea, please stop by the Great Pavilion at stand GPF075. It’s the perfect place to lose yourself in the fragrance and colour for a moment, and we’d love for you to see our newest varieties exactly as they’re meant to be seen, planted, established and in full flower.
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