From Seed to Show

As I stand here amidst the hustle and bustle of the RHS Hampton Court Garden Festival 2023, it’s hard to believe that what started as a small idea amongst a group of allotment friends has blossomed into a garden worthy of one of the UK’s most prestigious horticultural events. I am incredibly proud to represent Sunnyside Allotment Society, sharing our love for gardening and sustainable living with thousands of visitors.

The Seed of an Idea
The idea for Sunnyside Allotment Society was born from a desire to create a space where people visiting the show could see a cutting garden space, connect with nature, and witness how to cultivate something beautiful. An allotment is not just about growing vegetables or flowers; it’s about nurturing a sense of community. Over the years, we’ve seen friendships blossom as members exchange tips, share harvests, and support one another through gardening challenges.

When we first heard about the opportunity to showcase our work at RHS Hampton, we were thrilled—but also a bit daunted. How could we possibly distil the essence of our allotments, with all their diversity and character, into a single show garden? We were eager to take on this challenge.

Designing Our Garden
Our vision for the RHS Hampton garden was to create a space that reflected the heart of Sunnyside: a vibrant, sustainable cutting garden where every element had a story. We wanted visitors to feel the same joy we do when we step into our allotment. We started by selecting plants that thrive in our local climate and support biodiversity. Annual flowers, pollinator-friendly plants, and flowering perennials were all must-haves. We also wanted to showcase sustainable gardening, so we incorporated upcycled materials and rainwater harvesting systems into our design.

One of the key features of our garden is the communal seating area created from a reclaimed old garden bench. This area represents the heart of the allotments, where members gather to share a cup of tea, exchange ideas, and celebrate the fruits of their labour. It’s a space that invites conversation and connection.

The Growing Process
Growing for a show like RHS Hampton is both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Every seed we planted and every bed we prepared was made with the knowledge that it would be on display for thousands to see. There were moments of doubt—when the weather didn’t cooperate or when pests threatened to undo all our hard work—but the support of our community kept us going.

We dedicated countless hours to nurturing our plants, ensuring they were healthy and vibrant for the big day. It was a labour of love, with every team member contributing their skills and knowledge. Seeing our plants flourish under the summer sun was enriching, and we knew they would soon be part of something much bigger.

Time
As the festival opened, the excitement was palpable. Our cutting garden was a testament to the Sunnyside Allotment Team’s hard work, creativity, and passion. Watching visitors explore our space, hearing their compliments, and answering their questions was an experience I’ll never forget. Our commitment to sustainability inspired many, while others were drawn to the community aspect of our garden—proof that gardening is about so much more than just plants. A visit from two well-known television presenters and a feature of our allotment on BBC’s Gardener’s World was the highlight of the gardening year!

Looking Ahead
Participating in RHS Hampton 2023 has been an unforgettable experience, but it’s only the beginning. We hope our garden has inspired others to start their own growing journeys, whether in a window box, a backyard, or a community allotment. Gardening has the power to bring people together, to teach us patience and resilience, and to remind us of the beauty that comes from nurturing the earth. Our allotment may be small in comparison to Hampton Court's grandeur, but it is rich in spirit and community.

Thank you to everyone who visited our garden and supported us on this incredible journey. Here’s to many more seasons of growth and connection at Sunnyside Allotment Society.