This year's Chelsea

 Regular readers will know my weakness for gardens. So a trip to the Chelsea Flower Show is high on my list of desirable things to do. I treated myself to an expensive all day ticket for the first Members' day - the one after the royals and the celebs go - and this year I was there before nine a.m. I didn't make it so early last year as the RNA Awards ceremony was the night before! This year there was no book and no short listing, so I was able to give the flowers my full attention. Even at that time in the morning the place was crowded and the show gardens were five or six deep in spectators. I had a hit list though, so was able to find my way to the things I wanted to see and view them reasonably well. I had a good time. It was a glorious day and I managed to get around with numerous stops to sit for a few minutes and rest my hip problem. And of course, I took pictures. My favourite garden was from Jewellers Boodles, inspired by their Raindance diamond collection. I liked the diamonds too, but they are way out of my price range! I liked the garden because it was so pretty, with pastel planting that I hope to eventually use for inspiration in mine. The design won a gold medal, but I didn't see it featured in any of the TV broadcasts, but perhaps I missed it. The TV I saw seemed to be more interested in displays featuring rust and weeds - but everyone to their own taste. I go for the plants. I can grow my own weeds, thanks. 

Detail of the planting from the garden -
I took it to remind me what I want to emulate. 

Roses were high on my list of things I wanted to see.
I picked the brains of the stall holders in the Pavilion over what would do well in pots. 

Clematis. Triumph of hope over experience as I have never managed to keep one alive.
I am going to have another go. Wish me luck. 

Lilies. I bought bulbs - I think they are the same ones as last year. I will find out, as last years have come up. For once the slugs didn't get them. 

Climbers. I bought myself a plumbago - the blue one in the middle, as I had never seen one before. It made it home with me and has new flowers, so I have my fingers crossed. 

Peonies. At some stage I have to have one of these beauties, although I have heard they are not easy to grow.

Peonies. At some stage I have to have one of these beauties,
although I have heard they are not easy to grow.