GARDEN - FACTSHEET - RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2018
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Tuesday 22 – Saturday 26 May 2018
GARDEN – FACTSHEET
Show Gardens, Artisan Gardens, Space to Grow
Before completing your application pack, please read through this document. It explains:
2018 garden categories
What happens next
First time designers
What is required
Regulations
Garden promotion
Environmental responsibility
Working access passes and tickets
Judging & awards
Terms & conditions
Contacts
2018 GARDEN CATEGORIES
Show Garden
A Show Garden demonstrates the best of horticulture and excellence in garden design and innovative landscaping.
The largest gardens at the show offer the ability to create the extraordinary, generate wonder and excitement and
make a lasting impact at the world’s most prestigious flower show.
Artisan Gardens
Traditional materials and methods are revitalised through new design approaches in the creation of the Artisan
Gardens. Rustic combines with stylish modern twists, resulting in bold and exciting gardens.
Space to Grow
Space to Grow Gardens are a new source of ideas and trends at Chelsea for everyone, showing how we can all
incorporate plants into our lives. In a prominent location along Royal Hospital Way, the gardens here will inspire
visitors to transform their outdoor space, no matter how modest, and feel the benefits that growing can bring.
rhs.org.uk
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
Applications and all supporting documents must be received no later than Wednesday 9 August 2017 for all
garden categories. The completed application, along with associated drawings and information will be assessed
by a Selection Panel, a group of expert garden designers, landscape architects, plantsmen and contractors
during September and October. The Panel’s comments will be provided in order that applicants can supply
additional information requested and make changes or revisions as appropriate. Changes and additional
information should then be submitted within two weeks and should include any new or additional drawings.
Providing all information has been supplied to the Panel’s satisfaction and your garden is accepted for the show,
an allocation of space can be made. Final allocations will be sent out with an Acceptance of Site Contract. The
signed contract must be returned as soon as possible so that a login for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show Exhibitor
Zone 2018 and order forms can be issued.
KEY DATES:*
Show Gardens
o Application deadline, Wednesday 9 August 2017
o First selection Panel meeting, Wednesday 30 August 2017
o Final Panel meeting, Tuesday 3 October 2017
o Allocation, end October
Space to Grow and Artisan Gardens
o Application deadline, Wednesday 9 August 2017
o First selection Panel meeting, Thursday 31 August 2017
o Final Panel meeting, Friday 6 October 2017
o Allocation, end October
* Please note all panel meeting dates are provisional
Note: If your garden is accepted for the show, a provisional allocation of space can be made any time from the first
panel meeting right through to the last. Once all gardens have been selected, only then will they be put on
plan and given final allocation of space.
FIRST TIME DESIGNERS
We encourage all exhibitors to contact us to talk through their application before submission and to submit a
portfolio of relevant work. First time designers must work with an experienced contractor. Please contact us if
you would like details of experienced Chelsea contractors.
WHAT IS REQUIRED
Please read the following information to help you be in the best position for a successful application.
1. Read the factsheet thoroughly. This factsheet contains all the information you require to help you design a
garden that is suitable for the show, such as excavation depth, height restrictions, queries concerning
logistic, regulations etc. If you have any other questions please contact a member of the Show Management
team.
2. Submit everything we require in the format stated below. If we do not get the information as required we
might not be able to submit your application to the selection panel.
Specification for submission
All drawings and images must be scaled to A3.
The maximum file size per document is 4MB.
rhs.org.uk
Please submit only the following file types: image files and PDF.
Annotations must be clear and legible.
Drawings
All garden applications must include at least one of each of the following six drawings as a minimum
in order for your application to be submitted to the selection panel.
Clearly label each drawing with the drawing number, drawing type, your name and garden category.
Save each file using the following format:
3,Perspective_drawing, Jo_blogs,Show_Garden.JPEG
N.B. If you are submitting more than one drawing please label these as 3a, 3b, 3c. i.e.
‘3a,Perspective_drawing’, ‘3b,Perspective drawing’ etc.
1. Master plan
a. 2D colour plan showing the garden from above.
b. Plan should be to scale.
c. The plan should be fully annotated with key elements of the design, such as boundary
treatment, hard landscaping, full dimensions, planted areas, materials etc.
2. Setting out plan
a. 2D black and white plan similar to the master plan showing the main elements of the
garden. This helps the panel see your design clearly.
b. The plan should show key dimensions e.g. path widths, spot heights, water dimensions.
3. Perspective drawing(s)
a. This can be either a perspective or axonometric drawings showing key views of the
garden including the views into the garden that visitors will see.
b. Ideally this drawing should be in full colour.
c. We recommend at least one of these drawings to be an artistic impression. This helps the
panel understand the ‘feeling’ of the garden, which sometimes can get lost within a
computer generated perspective.
4. Section drawings
a. These plans show excavation depths and key heights of ALL elements of the garden
(including both soft and hard landscaping).
b. Please include the RHS regulated depths and heights (available from the regulations
handbook) shown as a line drawn on the section elevations for comparison.
5. Preliminary planting plan
a. This plan should be similar to the master plan showing key structural plants, and planting
schemes.
b. The plan should be accompanied by a separate list of plants – this does not have to be a
final definitive list, but needs to be a good indication of plants to be used.
c. You may also include plant mood boards but please do not submit only mood boards, as
planting plan and list are fundamental to your application.
6. Construction drawings
a. Construction drawings should be supplied at application stage clearly showing how
buildings, structures, walls and any load bearing elements of your garden are
constructed.
b. Structural engineering drawings will only be required at allocation.
You may also submit other material if you so wish, however we must clearly see the above six separate
drawings submitted with your application. Any additional material must be clearly labelled. For example:
Additional_material 1_Moodboard
Additional_material 2_Material_moodboard
3. Complete the Application Form in full. Make sure you fill in all sections of the application form, making sure
you choose the most relevant person to act as the Co-coordinator. We will only communicate to this single
person who will then be responsible to distribute relevant information through your team.
rhs.org.uk
4. Cost Estimate. It is important that we receive a full costing of your garden, which has been checked by your
contractor. This will help you to ascertain if your design is achievable within your budget, and to assure us
that you have fully thought through your submission.
5. Sponsor letter. For all sponsored gardens we require a letter confirming sponsorship with your application.
The letter should be from your sponsor confirming their support of your garden and the sponsorship
amount.
6. Clients Brief.
The Client’s Brief enables you to communicate your design intentions to the judging panel and forms the
basis upon which your garden will be judged. Completing it will help you focus on:-
WHAT your client has asked you to achieve, the garden’s purpose and function.
WHY you have chosen the particular design direction, inspiration and/or theme for the garden.
HOW you will construct the garden and in particular with what hard materials and plants.
When completing the Client’s Brief:
Do not exceed stated word limits or include overly detailed descriptions.
Do not leave any questions unanswered. If you state ‘no’ or ‘not applicable’ to any questions,
please expand and explain why this is the case.
REGULATIONS
Unless otherwise stated, regulations relate to all garden categories.
Allocated space
Exhibits must be confined to their allocated area during show week (this includes overhang, e.g. structures and
buildings).
Barriers
Exhibitors are advised to erect a barrier around their garden, this should be in keeping with the style of the
garden. The barrier should be placed no more than 0.5m outside the edge of the garden and must be 0.75m –
1.25m high. This is the responsibility of the exhibitor and not the RHS. The garden must be manned from within
the rope line or just outside.
Boundary heights
Garden Category Back Wall Side Wall
2m+ * Side walls are not essential. Where
included these may not exceed 2m
Artisan Gardens Rear boundary should be a dropping to 1.2m for 2.4m from front
minimum of 2m. edge.
Rear boundary should be a Side walls and fences should be a
Space to Grow maximum of 2m. maximum height of 2 metres, except at
the front of the garden where they
should be a maximum height of 1.2m
for the first 2.4m from front edge.
Main Avenue (East) 3m minimum 2.4m
[backing onto shell scheme]
Show Gardens Side walls and fences should be a
Main Avenue (West) 2-6m * maximum height of 2 metres, except at
[backing onto Great Pavilion] the front of the garden where they
should be a maximum height of 1.2m
for the first 2.4m from front edge.
rhs.org.ukRock Garden Bank
Boundaries to be designed with viewing opportunities in mind and agreed in
advance with the Show Manager*
Triangle
* Heights to be agreed with Show Manager. If your boundary differs from regulation this must be agreed in
advance with the Show Manager.
The height of all walls and fences must be clearly marked on your garden plan.
Common boundaries must be discussed with neighbouring exhibitor(s) whose details will be given when
space is confirmed. The height, style and finish of adjoining walls or fences, buildings and any other items
of mutual interest must be agreed, and permission of the Show Manager sought where these differ from
RHS regulation.
An exhibitor who erects a structure or a boundary partition which is visible from their neighbour’s exhibit
or public thoroughfare must finish the structure to the same high standard on both sides. In the event of
a dispute, exhibitors should contact the Show Manager.
Buildings
Within reason, the maximum height of any built structures in gardens is 6 meters. However, exhibitors must
ensure that:
The height of buildings, structures and trees are clearly marked on the plan of your garden.
Buildings and structures exceeding 2m in height are positioned at least 1m away from perimeter walls or
fences that form a common boundary with neighbouring exhibits. As a general guideline, the higher the
building or structure, the further away it should be from a common boundary.
Charges for site
There is no charge for garden space. All costs including build, promotion, hospitality and breakdown are the
responsibility of the exhibitor. See also garden deposits.
Children
Children under 5 years of age are not allowed on site at any time. Children under 16 years of age are not
allowed on site during the build-up, restocking and breakdown periods. Under 18’s are not admitted to the
Charity Gala Preview.
Conduct
Exhibitors are expected to conduct their business in a polite and courteous manner and in a fashion that
promotes a safe and welcoming environment.
Exhibitors are expected to act lawfully, ethically and in the best interest of all other site users and show
visitors at all times.
Exhibitors must not smoke or consume food or drink on their stands in view of visitors.
During the open hours of the Show exhibitors are expected to maintain a clean, smart and professional
appearance.
Exhibitors may not canvas for business in any part of the site outside the space allocated to them.
The sale or distribution of literature which is not relevant to the exhibit or to the exhibitor’s normal
business is prohibited.
Exhibitors may not canvas for business or undertake any form of promotion outside the showground
(including the car parks and surrounding areas) without written permission from the RHS and the
relevant authorities. Permission is not normally granted.
Exhibitors are required to respect the Show site and neighbour’s stands or sites.
Cranes
Exhibitors must hire cranes provided by Baldwins Crane Hire, the official crane contractor for the Show.
Cranes that have not been booked from the official crane contractor will be turned away.
Exhibitors who need to bring cranes onto site must arrange times/length of stay with the Show
Manager before arriving on site.
rhs.org.uk Cranes delivered to site should only be of sufficient size for the operation they are required for, and
not larger.
Cranes can only remain on site for limited periods of time.
Crane outriggers or stabilisers that project onto unprotected ground must have stabiliser pads that are
protected by a minimum of two standard (e.g. 2.4m x 1.2m) sheets of 20mm exterior grade plywood per
stabilizer pad.
Cranes are banned for Artisan Gardens
Drawings
All garden applications must include the following drawings as a minimum in order to be assessed for selection:
1. Master plan
a. 2D colour plan showing the garden from above.
b. Plan should be to scale.
c. The plan should be fully annotated with key elements of the design, such as boundary
treatment, hard landscaping, full dimensions, planted areas, materials etc.
2. Setting out plan
a. 2D black and white plan similar to the master plan showing the main elements of the
garden. This helps the panel see your design clearly.
b. The plan should show key dimensions e.g. path widths, spot heights, water dimensions.
3. Perspective drawing(s)
a. This can be either a perspective or axonometric drawings showing key views of the
garden including the views into the garden that visitors will see.
b. Ideally this drawing should be in full colour.
c. We recommend at least one of these drawings to be an artistic impression. This helps the
panel understand the ‘feeling’ of the garden, which sometimes can get lost within a
computer generated perspective.
4. Section drawings
a. These plans show excavation depths and key heights of ALL elements of the garden
(including both soft and hard landscaping).
b. Please include the RHS regulated depths and heights (available from the regulations
handbook) shown as a line drawn on the section elevations for comparison.
5. Preliminary planting plan
a. This plan should be similar to the master plan showing key structural plants, and planting
schemes.
b. The plan should be accompanied by a separate list of plants – this does not have to be a
final definitive list, but needs to be a good indication of plants to be used.
c. You may also include plant mood boards but please do not submit only mood boards, as
planting plan and list are fundamental to your application.
6. Construction drawings
a. Construction drawings should be supplied at application stage clearly showing how
buildings, structures, walls and any load bearing elements of your garden are
constructed.
b. Structural engineering drawings will only be required at allocation.
Excavations
There is substantial infrastructure under the showground, consisting of drains, water mains, tanks, telephone
lines and electric cables. All exhibitors will be made aware of these services, and those exhibits which involve
excavation or construction of any sort must have prior approval for their plans from the Show Manager. Caution
must be exercised to avoid damage to underground infrastructure. Any damage to services will not only cause
inconvenience but will incur serious costs, which will be charged to the exhibitor. Any discovered items of
archaeological or historical interest, such as pottery, coins, bricks etc., are the property of the site owners and
must be reported immediately to the Show Manager. The depths of excavations must be clearly marked on your
garden plans.
Where not removed by the RHS, the existing turf on sites should be removed with as little soil as possible.
Excavated soil must be incorporated within the construction of the exhibit where possible or removed to
designated spoil heaps; it must not be removed from the site.
rhs.org.ukArtisan Gardens No excavation is permitted
Space to Grow The maximum depth for any excavation is 0.75m
No excavation is permitted within 1m of all kerb lines
Show Gardens The maximum depth for any excavation is listed below:
- Main Avenue (East) 1.5m except within Root Protection Areas (see
below)
- Main Avenue (West) 0.75m
- Rock Garden depths to be agreed with Show Manager at allocation
stage
- Triangle depths to be agreed with Show Manager at allocation stage
All Gardens No excavation is permitted within 300mm of all kerb lines
In order to protect tree roots permission from the Show Manager is needed when excavating within tree Root
Protection Areas (RPAs). A RPA is defined as the circular areas around the tree within a radius of four times the
circumference of the tree trunk measured at 1.3m high. Within the RPA excavation guidelines are:
a.) Excavations within 1/3 of radius: not permitted except with hand tools and only under the
supervision of the onsite arboriculturist.
b.) Excavations between 1/3 of radius and 2/3 of radium: 0.75m depth limit
c.) Excavations between 2/3 of radius and limit of radius: 1.5m depth limit
d.) Excavations beyond radius of root protection area: 1.5m depth limit
Garden deposits
If your garden application is selected for the show you will be required to pay a refundable deposit. Deposits will
not be returned if you withdraw your application after allocation. Please see table below for the different
amounts for each garden category.
Artisan Gardens £600 incl. VAT
Space to Grow £600 incl. VAT
Show Gardens £1800 incl. VAT
The deposit is fully refundable and will be repaid to you providing that, having returned your Acceptance of Site
Contract, your garden is built at the Show in accordance with the agreed plans. Refunds will not be made to
exhibitors who fail to clear their site to the required standard following the Show.
rhs.org.ukGarden sizes and locations
10m frontage x 20 – 22m depth (Main Avenue East, viewed from two sides)
15m frontage x 10m depth (Main Avenue West, viewed from two sides)
Triangle (please contact Katherine Potsides to discuss this site further)
Up to 22m x 10m depth (Rock Garden Bank is a sloping site, viewed from front only,
Show Garden please contact Katherine Potsides to discuss this site further)
Any other size not stated above from contact Katherine Potsides before completing
your application to discuss
6m frontage x 6m depth (one or two open sides)
Space to Grow
(Royal Hospital Way 12m frontage x 6m depth (one or two open sides)
North) 10m frontage x 10m depth (one or two open sides)
5m frontage x 4m depth (viewed from front)
7m frontage x 5m depth (viewed from front)
Artisan Garden 7m frontage x 4m depth (viewed from front)
8m frontage x 6m depth (viewed from front)
9m frontage x 4m depth (viewed from front)
Irregular shape 40sqm
Although every effort will be made to accommodate the requested size of garden, no guarantee can be given.
Graphics, murals, painted backgrounds, etc.
The proposed use of graphics, murals, painted backgrounds, etc. must be shown in plans submitted in advance
and the Show Manager’s permission sought for their use. In all cases these must be constructed of a fire
retardant material.
Masonry Cutting
Only masonry-cutting equipment with water-spray dust suppression kit may be used onsite. No masonry cutting
equipment may be used anywhere on the show site less than five days before judging.
No exhibitors may undertake any operation which is likely to create dust causing detriment to exhibits which
have already been staged.
Media Form
Following acceptance into the show and a provisional allocation, garden exhibitors are required to complete the
RHS Media Form. This must be filled in as fully as possible and should include a final illustration of the garden.
The final illustration will be used for the garden’s web and show guide pages. Late submissions of the Media
Form or the final illustration will incur a charge.
Plant & machinery
A maximum weight limit of 6 tonnes applies to all plant brought on site. Where possible, smaller
machines should be used.
Excavators and plant used should only be of sufficient size for the excavations they are required for, and
not larger than is necessary. Metal tracked equipment of any type is not permitted on site under any
circumstances. All machinery entering the Great Pavilion or Ranelagh Gardens must be fitted with
grassland or industrial tyres, no agricultural tyres will be permitted in these areas.
Operators of all types of plant must be competent, experienced, and in possession of, and able to make
available for inspection on site, the appropriate qualification, licence or certificate. Such documentation
must be up to date.
All plant vehicles must only be used within their designed capabilities and limits.
Unattended plant must be parked correctly and safely without blocking any access/egress points to or
from buildings, structures or the site neither must they be parked over tree roots.
rhs.org.uk Industrial or grassland tyres are preferred on vehicles working on the tarmac roads travelling to and
from the spoil heap.
Lugged tyres will not be allowed into the site
Safety reversing alarms of the broadband (white noise) type are required on all plant.
Restricted items
When designing a garden bear in mind the items listed below are either not allowed or restricted (needing
special permission from the Show Manager).
Items not allowed:
Balloons
Flags
Feather flags
Product samples
Materials exuding a foul or unpleasant odour (including spray paints, aerosols and fibres)
Gnomes or brightly coloured creatures
Any item which, in the opinion of the Society, detracts from the presentation of the plants or products
on display, or from the general appearance of the Show
Items requiring special permission from the Show Manager:
Any item deemed by the Society to have no direct or demonstrable relevance to horticulture or
gardening
Audio and visual media
Pop-up banners
Artificial plant material including artificial turf
Banners
Bunting
Dormant bulbs and corms
Food and drink
Fruit or flowers artificially attached to a plant or spray
Live animals of any kind
Mirrors
Music
Sound effects
Services
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show Exhibitor Zone and order forms for tickets and services (water, electricity,
telephones, etc.) will be emailed to confirmed exhibitors in January 2018.
Soil movement and ground protection
Exhibitors can request turf removal prior to arrival onsite using the soil removal form on the online
exhibitor manual. The soil removal form can also be used to request removal of additional amounts of
soil from Space to Grow. There may be a small charge to cover costs.
Gardens may remove up to 70m³ of soil to the RHS soil heap. Above this amount the garden will have to
pay for the removal and return of soil to the site. Contact the Show Manager for further details.
All foundations must be lined with a membrane. If using gravel, sand, shingle or other building
materials, the ground must also be covered with a membrane to protect the ground and grass.
Glass chippings, crushed CDs and selected waste materials may not be used.
Fibreglass may only be used if pre-agreed with the Show Manager.
Storage areas within exhibits
Space is allocated to the exhibitor on the understanding that it is used principally to stage the garden.
Catalogues, leaflets and any other promotional material must not be stored in view of visitors. Exhibits may not
be constructed to contain private offices. Limited storage areas are allocated for all Show and Space to Grow:
these may be shared between exhibits.
Artisan only
rhs.org.ukExhibitors who need storage facilities must design this into the space allocated: this must be discreet, tasteful
and in harmony with the design of the garden.
Sub-letting of space
Exhibitor’s may not sub-let, or otherwise part with the whole or any part of the space allocated. Sub-letting
would constitute an exhibitor allowing another company to trade from their allocated stand.
Water features
Exhibitors must not use stand pipes to fill large water features. Please contact the Show Manager for more
details.
GARDEN PROMOTION
Branded items
No giveaways or branded items such as umbrellas, ponchos etc. can be given away from your garden.
Confidentiality
Applicants may confirm to the media they have applied but may not confirm they have been allocated until after
the RHS has announced the list of allocated gardens at the official RHS Chelsea Flower Show press launch, exact
dates to be confirmed at allocation. The RHS reserves the right to announce to the media any garden, once
allocated. Gardens cannot delay the announcement in favour of their own press launch.
Fundraising
Charitable cash collection may not be carried out within the showground. Discreet fundraising activities may be
carried out during After Hours functions with permission from the Show Manager.
Garden entertainment
Exhibitors may not entertain on their gardens during show open hours. Details of opportunities for exhibitors to
entertain, such as After Hours and Business Breakfasts, can be found on the online exhibitor zone sent to
successful applicants on allocation in January 2018.
Leaflets
Exhibitors are encouraged to produce a leaflet containing information relevant to the garden to distribute to
Show visitors. Leaflets are collected by visitors and kept after the Show, so they should contain images and
information to act as an aide memoire. The leaflet may be of any format, and must be produced to a high
standard.
The content should include:
On the front cover: the garden’s title, site number, the correct name of the Show (RHS Chelsea Flower
Show) and the Twitter hashtag #RHSChelsea
At least one third must be dedicated to details about the garden; the remainder may be given over to
specific promotions or information about sponsor(s)
Contacts and details of the company/organisation, sponsor(s), designer(s) or contractor(s)
Images of the garden design and the featured plants
Plant lists
Any other information relevant to the horticultural content of your garden
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Exhibitors must send a draft copy of the leaflet to the Show Manager for approval no less than six weeks before
the Show.
Manning of exhibits
All gardens must be manned from 8am–8pm daily Tuesday to Friday and from 8am–5.30pm on Saturday of the
Show. Gardens should be manned by members of the design/ construction team as well as the sponsor
company, so as to inform visitors about the plant and design elements within the garden. We recommend the
following staffing levels, six staff on 10 x 22m garden, four staff on 10 x 10m garden and two or three staff for
Artisan and Space to Grow.
rhs.org.ukSamples
Samples may not be distributed from gardens.
Selling
No plants or other items may be sold from the garden during the show. Exhibitors may take orders for plants,
products or services during the show.
Sell off
On the last day of the Show (Saturday), exhibitors are permitted to sell the plants and other items from their
gardens from 4pm if they wish. At 5.30pm the Show closes and no further selling is permitted.
Show Guide and website entry
All gardens must complete a Show Guide entry and description for the website in the time frame requested by
the RHS. A media form, which captures all the relevant details, will be sent to you upon allocation. Exhibitors
seeking guidance on the style and format should refer to RHS Chelsea website and the 2017 Chelsea Show
Guide, copies of which are available on request from the Shows Department.
Souvenir Show Bags
The below guidelines apply to shopping bags only.
Exhibitors are permitted to reference the following items on souvenir bags
The exhibit sponsor/exhibitor name (logo and/or text)
The name of the garden/exhibit (text)
Image of the exhibit (photo/drawings)
NOT permitted to reference:
Any of the following words: RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2018
The show logo
The show creative
Only the RHS and selected show partners have the right to reference the show logo, creative and/or RHS Chelsea
Flower Show 2018.
For full RHS Chelsea Brand Guidelines please refer to the online Exhibitor Zone.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY
The following regulations have been formulated in accordance with The Royal Horticultural Society’s policies on
conservation and the environment.
Restricted Materials
Surface-stripped limestone pavement must not be used at any RHS Shows.
Peat must not be used for staging or mulching purposes.
Exhibitors are encouraged to minimise or exclude peat from plant production as much as possible.
Timber treated with creosote should not be used at Shows. The European commission restricts the
use of creosote-treated products. For more information see
http://www.hse.gov.uk/biocides/copr/creosote.htm
Restricted Plants & Plant Regulations
The RHS reserves the right to demand the removal of any plants or other materials which compromise the
following RHS policies:
Exhibitors are not permitted to use or sell plants, moss, bulbs or corms which have been collected
from the wild.
Exhibitors should ensure they comply with CITES as implemented in the European Union and other
conservation legislation designed to protect wild plants and their habitats. For more information see
http://www.cites.org/eng/disc/what.php
The RHS’s policy regarding the use or sale at RHS shows of non-native invasive plants, in accordance
with Schedule 9 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act for England and Wales and EU Implementing
rhs.org.ukRegulation 2016/1141 can be found here https://rhs.org.uk/shows-events/pdf/restricted-plants-at-
rhs-shows
All plants entering the United Kingdom from outside the European Union (EU) will require a
phytosanitary certificate and will be inspected prior to entry. Importers of consignments from outside
the EU must notify the Plant Health and Seeds Inspectorate (PHSI) using the PEACH system
(http://ehmipeach.defra.gov.uk/). There are also restrictions on the movements of some plants within
the EU, for example imports of Castanea (sweet chestnut), Fraxinus (ash), Platanus (plane), Quercus
(oak) and Ulmus (elm) are restricted into the UK
(http://www.fera.defra.gov.uk/plants/plantHealth/treeHealth/index.cfm).
For more information see: http://www.fera.defra.gov.uk/plants/plantHealth/imports/index.cfm Tel:
+44 (0) 1904 465625; Fax: +44 (0) 1904 465628; Email planthealth.Info@fera.gsi.gov.uk
Exhibitors are advised to familiarise themselves with current regulations regarding:
Agapanthus gall midge
http://ww.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=901
Ash dieback (Chalara Fraxinea)
http://forestry.gov.uk/chalara
Asian longhorn beetle
http://www.forestry.gov.uk/asianlonghornbeetle
Fuchsia gall mite (Aculops fuchsiae)
http://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=512
Oak processionary moth (Thaumetopoea processionea)
http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/INFD-74CE39
Phytophthora diseases including those caused by:
Phytophthora kernoviae:
http://www.fera.defra.gov.uk/plants/publications/documents/factsheets/phytophthoraKernoviaeFactshee
t.pdf
Phytophthora lateralis:
http://www.fera.defra.gov.uk/plants/publications/documents/factsheets/phytophthoraLateralis.pdf
Phytophthora ramorum (Sudden oak death):
http://www.fera.defra.gov.uk/plants/publications/documents/factsheets/phytophthoraRamorumFactshee
t.pdf
Information about further important pests and diseases can be found here:
http://www.fera.defra.gov.uk/plants/plantHealth/pestsDiseases/index.cfm
Harmful plants
Most plants do not present any hazard to humans and incidents in the United Kingdom are rare. Nevertheless it is
the responsibility of exhibitors to ensure that risks are avoided, e.g. by positioning plants known to have skin or
eye irritant qualities away from the front of a stand; and that controls are in place in case of an incident.
Potentially harmful plants must be clearly identified. For further details refer to the Code of Recommended Retail
Practice Relating to the Labelling of Potentially Harmful Plants published by the Horticultural Trades Association.
(http://www.kew.org/science/ecbot/HTA_code_list.pdf)
For more information see www.rhs.org.uk/Advice/Profile?PID=524.
Using & selling timber
Timber products brought to RHS Shows for sale or display must be proven to be from sustainable source.
Exhibitors must provide a copy of their own timber certificate or, if they do not hold certificates themselves, a
valid certificate from their direct supplier accompanied by a recent invoice. All exhibitors are encouraged to use
sustainably sourced timber in the construction and staging of exhibits. Independent audits are undertaken at
RHS Shows to ensure exhibitors are complying with the policy.
rhs.org.ukWORKING ACCESS PASS AND TICKETS
Working access pass
A working access pass provides access to the showground for everyone involved in staging and manning the
garden, including staff handing out leaflets on show open days.
In order to obtain a working access pass you will be required to preregister all individuals involved in your
garden, this includes each individual during the build up, breakdown and show week. Each individual
preregistering will need to provide the following information: full name, home address, date of birth and upload
a recent head and shoulders photograph.
Allocation of working access passes relates to the size of your garden. Details of these are given in the RHS
Chelsea Flower Show Exhibitor Zone 2018 and in the tables below.
Access to the site is not permitted without a valid working access pass.
All vehicle occupants must wear a working access pass and the vehicle must have a valid pass.
The working access pass is non-transferable.
Garden Size Build up Final build Press day Show week
access Sunday access access working access
20 – 44sqm 22 8 8 40
45 – 70sqm 22 10 10 45
71 – 95sqm 22 12 12 50
96 – 120sqm 55 14 14 55
121 – 145sqm 55 16 16 60
146 – 170sqm 55 18 18 65
171 – 195sqm 55 20 20 75
196sqm – upwards 55 22 22 80
Build-up times
The following is a guide to when construction can begin. All dates are subject to change and will be confirmed in
the RHS Chelsea Flower Show Manual 2018. Garden exhibitors may begin construction as follows:
ARTISAN GARDEN Wednesday 9 May
Royal Hospital Way East (10x10m) Monday 7 May
SPACE TO GROW
Royal Hospital Way West (6x6/12m) Wednesday 9 May
Main Avenue (East) Tuesday 1 May
Main Avenue (West) Thursday 3 May
SHOW GARDEN Rock Garden Bank Tuesday 1 May
Triangle Tuesday 1 May
All construction work (including excavation, foundations, buildings, conservatories, walling, paving and
the cutting of any stone) must be completed by 9am on Wednesday 16 May. Construction vehicles must
have left the site by this time, leaving space for the majority of other exhibitors arriving on the site to
unload their vehicles.
All gardens must be completed by 7.30am on Sunday 20 May 2018 but we advise you aim to be
completed by Saturday 19 May.
Breakdown
Exhibitors must remove all rubbish and building materials etc. from the showground and you must obtain a
Clearance Certificate from the RHS Show Team before you leave the Showground. The General Contractor will
quote for site clearance if you do not wish to clear your site yourself.
Show Garden exhibitors must complete breakdown no later than the following dates:
ARTISAN GARDEN Tuesday 29 May*
SPACE TO GROW Tuesday 29 May
rhs.org.ukMain Avenue (East) Thursday 31 May
Main Avenue (West) Tuesday 29 May
SHOW GARDEN Rock Garden Bank Thursday 31 May
Triangle Thursday 31 May
Artisan Only
*Vehicular Access
The maximum size of vehicles in Ranelagh Gardens is up to 3.5 tonnes laden weight (Luton Transit type) and not
exceeding 20 foot overall length with tail lift in use. Deliveries should be staggered to ensure that large vehicles
are not needed
Tickets
In addition to the allocated show day working access passes for manning your garden, exhibitors have an
opportunity to purchase a limited number of show tickets for clients and guests at a discounted rate. The
demand for tickets is very high and they must be ordered by the deadline provided. Tickets requested after the
deadline cannot be guaranteed, and those that we are to accommodate will be charged at full public rate, so it is
advised to ensure you purchase these as early as possible to avoid disappointment. The use of tickets as prizes in
commercial promotions, hospitality or travel packages, lotteries or competitions without the prior written consent
of the RHS is expressly prohibited.
It is against the terms and conditions of sale to resell tickets. Doing so will render them null and void and may affect
your entitlement to buy or receive tickets to future shows.
JUDGING & AWARDS
Garden Judging
RHS Garden judging is a three part process: assessing, judging and moderation.
Both assessing and judging will reference your Client’s Brief, which must be completed and submitted to the
Judging team in advance using the appropriate form. The form will be sent to you 5 weeks prior to judging.
Assessing, Saturday 19 May 2018: a small team of assessing judges will visit the garden. A representative from
the garden will have two minutes to present/highlight any developments to your garden since submitting the
final Client’s Brief. An approximate time for the presentation will be given in advance. The person giving the
presentation can be the designer, sponsor, contractor or whomever else you think most appropriate.
Tip: Speak positively and enthusiastically, do not make excuses or point out things unnecessarily, and do not
repeat the information in the Client’s Brief. The assessing judges may also have questions or seek further
clarification about the Client’s Brief or the garden.
After this presentation, exhibitors will be asked to vacate the garden whilst it is being assessed.
The assessing judges inspect the garden, systematically determining from the information supplied in the Client’s
Brief, the presentation and the garden itself the standard to which the exhibitor has achieved each of the criteria,
which results in a medal recommendation. See Garden Judging Criteria 2018 below.
The notes and marks from the assessing stage are circulated to the judging panel.
Note: Gardens do not have to be finished for assessing, although it is advised that garden should aim for
completion by Saturday 19 May 2018.
Judging, Sunday 20 May 2018: the judging panel, comprising of the three assessing judges and four additional
judges will visit the finished garden.
Having reviewed in advance the completed Client’s Brief, the assessing judges’ notes, and any further information
reported on behalf of the exhibitor at the presentation, the panel will review the garden and agree a medal
recommendation.
rhs.org.ukIf any member of the judging panel does not agree with the standard indicated by the assessing judges they can
call for further discussion and a revote. Once the entire panel has agreed on the standard to which the exhibitor
has achieved each of the criteria, this results in the medal to be awarded.
Moderation, Sunday 20 May 2018: a moderator, an experienced judge, will also accompany the judging panel to
ensure the panel is consistent in their application of the criteria and will confirm the medal awarded.
The garden with the highest score will automatically win Best in Show. Should two or more gardens score the
same then the judges will propose and then vote on their Best in Show. If there are more than two proposals, the
two with the most votes will be re-voted by all judges to reach a clear winner by a majority vote.
Please note no supporting literature, plant lists or additional plans are to be given out to the judges under any
circumstances.
RHS Awards
Gold, Silver-Gilt, Silver and Bronze medal awards can be awarded by the Judges. If an exhibit is
considered to be below Bronze standard, no award will be made.
Exhibitors winning a Gold Medal for the first time will be sent the engraved medal after the Show.
Medals for any other or subsequent exhibits are not provided but may be purchased.
Award cards will be placed on gardens before 8am on Tuesday 22 May. Any additional cards may be
ordered from the RHS at a charge of £5 per card.
Garden exhibitors will be eligible for best in category awards.
All results are embargoed until medal cards have been distributed on Tuesday 22 May.
rhs.org.uk2018 Garden Judging Criteria © The Royal Horticultural Society 2017
Excellent (4) Very Good (3) Good (2) Poor(1) Unsatisfactory (0)
1. Realisation of First-rate and Strong realisation Clear realisation of Ambiguous Limited realisation
Client’s Brief: clear realisation of of brief with minor brief with some realisation of brief of brief to
Clarity, Delivery brief with no discrepancies discrepancies with some completed garden
apparent between brief and between brief and significant
discrepancies completed garden completed garden discrepancies
between brief and between brief and
completed garden completed garden
2. Ambition: Excellent degree Very high degree of Adequate degree of Underlying degree of No, or very little
Atmosphere, Flair, of ambition with ambition with ambition with ambition but with evidence of
Originality, Impact, no apparent issues minor issues some noticeable some significant ambition
Theatre issues issues
3. Overall Excellent overall Very good overall Favourable overall Weak overall Low overall
Impression: impression with impression with impression with impression with impression with
Attention to detail no apparent issues minor weak areas some noticeable significant areas little evidence of
Choice of materials, of attention to lacking attention to weak areas requiring greater any attention to
Polish & Dressing detail detail requiring attention attention to detail detail
to detail
4. Design, layout Excellent layout Very good layout Good layout plan Weak layout plan Major flaws with
plan of garden: plan of garden, plan with some with some with some significant layout plan
Dimensions, Scale, with no apparent minor flaws noticeable flaws flaws
Unity flaws
5. Design, 3D and Excellent spatial Very good spatial Largely acceptable Weak spatial balance Major design
spatial balance and scale, balance and scale, spatial balance and and scale, with some issues of spatial
composition: with no apparent with minor issues scale, but with significant issues balance and scale
Scale, Mass & Void, issues some noticeable
Volume, Balance issues
6. Construction: Excellent build Very good build A generally good Variable build Substandard build
Quality of Build & quality and finish quality and finish finish in build quality and finish quality and finish
Finish demonstrating with minor faults in quality with some across garden with across the garden
craftsmanship, construction that construction faults notable faults in with numerous
flair and skill with reflect in the that could be the construction faults in tolerance
no apparent fault aesthetic finish to improved to detail and construction
in construction work enhance the build detail
finish
7. Planting design: Excellent planting Very good planting Good planting Sufficient planting Little or no
Visual impact, design with no design with minor design with some design with some tangible evidence
Colour, Texture, apparent errors in errors in noticeable errors significant errors in of planting design,
Form, Composition composition composition in composition composition lacks composition
8. Planting Excellent planting Very good planting Good planting Weak planting Arbitrary
associations: associations with associations with, associations with associations with associations with
Relevance, no apparent minor inaccuracies some noticeable significant major inaccuracies
Cultural inaccuracies in in plant selection inaccuracies in inaccuracies in plant in plant selection
requirements, plant selection plant selection selection
Sustainability
9. Planting Excellent quality Very good quality Good quality plants Generally undersized Inferior plants
implementation: plants with no plants with few with some minor plants of insufficient inadequate for
Quality, Health, imperfections and imperfections and imperfections quality and/or purpose.
Density appropriate mainly appropriate and/or some quantity for design Unsatisfactory on
density for design density for design inconsistency in intentions all counts.
intentions intentions density for design
intentions
Medal Gold Silver-Gilt Silver Bronze No Award
Points (36-28) (27-23) (22-19) (18-15) (14 – 0)
Correct at time of print, subject to review and amendment.
rhs.org.ukAmplification of Garden Judging Criteria
Criteria 1 Realisation of Client’s Brief: Clarity, Delivery
Does the completed garden reflect and support the design intentions as stated in the Client’s Brief?
THINK: Happy client
Criteria 2 Ambition: Atmosphere, Flair, Originality, Impact, Theatre
The garden could have any one, or a combination of the attributes listed.
THINK: Showmanship
Criteria 3 Overall Impression: Attention to detail, Choice of Materials, Polish & Dressing
Does the garden work as a whole?
How relevant and aesthetically pleasing are the choice of materials and the dressing of the garden?
THINK: Furnished, dressed
Criteria 4 Design, layout plan of garden: Dimensions, Scale, Unity,
Does the garden function in 2D? Do the spaces work for their supposed purposes?
THINK: Comfortable, cohesive space
Criteria 5 Design, 3D and spatial composition: Scale, Mass & Void, Volume, Balance
Does the design work as a whole?
THINK: Human scale
Criteria 6 Construction: Quality of Build & Finish
Finish refers to the quality of construction; for example in the width of the joints in the paving, the finish of a
rendered edge. It does not refer to the overall completion of the garden.
What standard of construction is evident in the completed garden?
THINK: Craftsmanship
Criteria 7 Planting design: Visual Impact, Colour, Texture, Form, Composition
Do the visual elements of the planting work together?
What visual impact is there?
THINK: Overall picture
Criteria 8 Planting associations: Relevance, Cultural requirements, Sustainability
Will the selected plants live and survive together?
THINK: Correct horticultural plant associations for design intentions
Criteria 9 Planting implementation: Quality, Health, Density
Are the selected plants healthy and of suitable size?
Is the planting density appropriate to the character & atmosphere as stated in the Client’s Brief? Is it
believable?
THINK: Appropriate horticultural practice for design intentions
rhs.org.uk2018 Conceptual Garden Judging Criteria © The Royal Horticultural Society 2017
Excellent (4) Very Good (3) Good (2) Poor(1) Unsatisfactory (0)
10. Realisation of First-rate and clear Strong realisation Clear realisation of Ambiguous realisation Limited realisation
Client’s Brief: realisation of brief of brief with minor brief with some of brief with some of brief to
Clarity, Delivery with no apparent discrepancies discrepancies between significant completed garden
discrepancies between brief and brief and completed discrepancies
between brief and completed garden garden between brief and
completed garden completed garden
11. Ambition: Excellent degree of Very high degree of Adequate degree of Underlying degree of No, or very little
Atmosphere, Flair, ambition with no ambition with ambition with some ambition but with evidence of
Originality, Impact, apparent issues minor issues noticeable issues some significant ambition
Theatre issues
12. Overall Excellent overall Very good overall Favourable overall Weak overall Low overall
Impression: impression with no impression with impression with some impression with impression with
Attention to detail apparent issues of minor weak areas noticeable weak areas significant areas little evidence of
Choice of materials, attention to detail lacking attention to requiring attention to requiring greater any attention to
Polish & Dressing detail detail attention to detail detail
13. Concept, Excellent Effective Coherent realisation. Minimal realisation. No apparent
Message, realisation. All realisation. Elements generally Elements lack clarity, realisation.
Theme: elements of the Majority of communicate the only communicate the Elements do not
What is the big idea? garden clearly elements concept, message, concept, message, communicate the
Is it well-delivered? communicate the communicate the theme, but with some theme minimally. concept, message,
concept, message, concept, message, noticeably weak or Significant confusion theme
theme theme but not all, confusing elements
minor confusion
14. Design, layout Excellent layout Very good layout Good layout plan with Weak layout plan Major flaws with
plan of garden: plan of garden, no plan with some some noticeable flaws with some significant layout plan
Dimensions, Scale, apparent flaws minor flaws flaws
Unity
15. Design, 3D and Excellent spatial Very good spatial Largely acceptable Weak spatial balance Major design
spatial balance and scale, balance and scale, spatial balance and and scale, with some issues of spatial
composition: with no apparent with minor issues scale, but with some significant issues balance and scale
Scale, Mass & Void, issues noticeable issues
Volume, Balance
16. Construction: Excellent build Very good build A generally good finish Variable build Substandard build
Quality of Build & quality and finish quality and finish in build quality with quality and finish quality and finish
Finish demonstrating with minor faults some construction across garden with across the garden
craftsmanship, flair in construction faults that could be notable faults in the with numerous
and skill with no that reflect in the improved to enhance construction detail faults in tolerance
apparent fault in aesthetic finish to the finish and construction
construction work detail
17. Planting design: Excellent planting Very good planting Good planting design Sufficient planting Little or no
Visual impact, design with no design with minor with some noticeable design with some tangible evidence
Colour, Texture, apparent errors in errors in errors in composition significant errors in of planting design,
Form, Composition composition composition composition lacks composition
18. Planting Excellent planting Very good planting Good planting Weak planting Arbitrary
associations & associations with associations with, associations with associations with associations with
implementation: no apparent minor inaccuracies some noticeable significant major inaccuracies
Relevance, Cultural inaccuracies in in plant selection. inaccuracies in plant inaccuracies in plant in plant selection.
requirements, plant selection. Very good quality selection. selection. Generally Inferior plants
Sustainability & Excellent quality plants with few Good quality plants undersized plants of inadequate for
Quality, Health, plants with no imperfections and with some minor insufficient quality purpose.
Density imperfections and mainly appropriate imperfections and/or and/or quantity for Unsatisfactory on
appropriate density for design some inconsistency in design intentions all counts.
density for design intentions density for design
intentions intentions
Medal Gold Silver-Gilt Silver Bronze No Award
Points (36-28) (27-23) (22-19) (18-15) (14 – 0)
Correct at time of print, subject to review and amendment.
rhs.org.ukAmplification of Conceptual Garden Judging Criteria
Criteria 1 Realisation of Client’s Brief: Clarity, Delivery
Does the completed garden reflect and support the design intentions as stated in the Client’s Briefs
THINK: Happy client
Criteria 2 Ambition: Atmosphere, Flair, Originality, Impact, Theatre
The garden could have any one, or a combination of the attributes listed.
THINK: Showmanship
Criteria 3 Overall Impression: Attention to detail, Choice of Materials, Polish & Dressing
Does the garden work as a whole?
How relevant and aesthetically pleasing are the choice of materials and the dressing of the garden?
THINK: Furnished, dressed
Criteria 4 Concept, Message, Theme: What is the big idea? Is it well delivered?
Do all elements of the garden support the design intentions?
Do the elements selected deliver the concept/message/theme of the garden?
THINK: Is the ‘big idea’ easy to decipher?
Criteria 5 Design, layout plan of garden: Dimensions, Scale, Unity,
Does the garden function in 2D? Do the spaces work for their supposed purposes?
THINK: Comfortable, cohesive space
Criteria 6 Design, 3D and spatial composition: Scale, Mass & Void, Volume, Balance
Does the design work as a whole?
THINK: Human scale
Criteria 7 Construction: Quality of Build & Finish
Finish refers to the quality of construction; for example in the width of the joints in the paving, the finish of a
rendered edge. It does not refer to the overall completion of the garden.
What standard of construction is evident in the completed garden?
THINK: Craftsmanship
Criteria 8 Planting design: Visual Impact, Colour, Texture, Form, Composition
Do the visual elements of the planting work together?
What visual impact is there?
THINK: Overall picture
Criteria 9 Planting associations & implementation: Relevance, Cultural requirements, Sustainability and
Quality, Health, Density
Will the selected plants live and survive together?
Are the selected plants healthy and of suitable size?
Is the planting density appropriate to the character & atmosphere as stated in the Client’s Brief? Is it
believable?
THINK: Correct horticultural plant associations for design intentions and appropriate horticultural practice for
design intentions
rhs.org.ukTERMS & CONDITIONS
In these regulations, the following words shall have the meaning ascribed to them below:
‘Public’ shall mean and include members of the general public, members of the Society, officers of the
Society, exhibitors, their employees, contractors, agents and all other persons attending the Show.
‘Exhibitor’ shall mean and include any person, business or company or other body making an application for
space in accordance with these Regulations.
Where the context so admits, references in these Regulations to the singular shall include the plural. Where
more than one person, business, company or body is understood by the term exhibitor, any liability imposed
on the exhibitor by these Regulations shall be a joint and several liability on those people’s businesses,
companies and bodies.
Acceptance of entries
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) adopts a good faith approach in assessing all applications for space and
subsequently in monitoring the conduct and standard of exhibitors to whom space is allocated. However,
whilst every effort is made to allocate space to exhibitors whom the Society regards as appropriate to the
Show, matters may come to the attention of the Society after allocation which either they were not aware of
at the time space was allocated to the particular exhibitor, or which have arisen since the time that space was
allocated.
Accordingly, after acceptance and up to the Show, the Society reserves the right to cancel or amend any
allocation of space if it considers the attendance of an exhibitor at the Show will be prejudicial to the interests
of the general public, members of the Society or the good name of the Society. The RHS reserves, without
limitation, the right to remove or alter exhibits and to refuse any application for space and in the event of any
such refusal it is not required to give an explanation.
Acceptance of Regulations by exhibitors
Application for space by the exhibitor and/or the acceptance of space offered shall mean that the exhibitor
agrees to observe and conform to the Rules and Regulations of the Show and to abide by the decisions of the
Society in connection with the Show. It will be the responsibility of the exhibitor to ensure that contractors and
any third party involved with their exhibit on site comply with these regulations.
Applications for space
Any person or organisation may apply for space to stage an exhibit at the Show. Applications must be made on
the official application form. Forms and Regulations for each section are available from the RHS Shows
Department. The return deadlines are printed on the application forms. Applications received after the
deadline that are of a sufficiently high standard may be placed on a waiting list.
The RHS reserves the right to deny space at the Show to any exhibitor who has consistently failed to provide a
high standard and quality of goods or services sold through the Show, or who has failed to adhere to the RHS
regulations. The RHS may at its discretion pass information to other exhibition organisers concerning the
conduct of such exhibitors.
Cancellation of space
Exhibitors who have been allocated space but subsequently find that they are unable to exhibit must notify the
Show Manager as soon as possible in writing. Exhibitors who cancel late or who neglect to send any
notification may not be allocated space at subsequent RHS Shows. The RHS reserves the right to recover its
reasonable expenses when exhibits are cancelled.
Exhibitors’ liability & need for insurance
a. The exhibitor shall indemnify the RHS against and from any claim, damage, loss or expense in respect
of personal injury, damage to property or any loss (whether caused by negligence or not) which may
arise out of or is connected with or in consequences of the carrying out, completion or maintenance
of the work, or which may arise from a breach by the exhibitor, their servants or agents (whether or
not in the course of their employment or any of the provisions) of this document, provided nothing
herein shall impose any liability upon the exhibitor for negligence on the part of the RHS or its
servants or agents.
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