Inspirational techniques will show how gardens can address future climatic challenges, reports Ian Hodgson
Gardens depicting design and planting features for our changing climate will be strongly represented at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show – especially water conservation and flood management.
The WaterAid Garden, by Tom Massey and Je Ahn, explores how aUK garden might look in 50 years by using sustainable water management, a palette of drought-tolerant plants and repurposed building materials. Its centrepiece is a Corten steel pavilion to filter and slow down storm water into the surrounding landscape.
Flood Re: The Flood Resilient Garden, by GN columnist Naomi Slade and environmental designer Ed Barsley, is a typical city back garden that’s enjoyable and beautiful while reducing flood risk and recovering quickly after heavy rainfall.
Dense planting slows down water flow while a swale channel spirits excess water into a feature pond. Large storage tanks are also water features, with water levels controlled by smart technology.
Water and its wildlife benef
