Monty Don to design first-ever Chelsea Flower Show 2025 garden
Monty Don will bring his love of dogs to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025 with his first-ever show garden.
Inspired by his Herefordshire garden, Longmeadow, the much-loved presenter told Country Living at the RHS Autumn Press Conference that it will be a "simple celebration of dogs and gardens" without being "cluttered with messages and symbols."
The RHS and Radio 2 Dog Garden will feature a neatly-mown lawn for dogs to explore, a large tree to cast shade, alliums and topiary balls to mimic tennis balls, wildflower meadows, and brick paths inscribed with the names of the dogs belonging to Radio 2 presenters and RHS ambassadors — including Monty's beloved dog Ned.
"I'm so busy at the moment and I usually resist requests to design a garden. But it's the combination of dogs and gardens that really appealed to me with this one. Also, I like the idea of doing something that's not cluttered with messages and symbols – just a simple celebration of dogs and gardens," Monty said today at the RHS Autumn Press Conference.
"My dog Ned has been acting as a consultant. Part of the garden is designed by dogs for dogs – and we'll reveal more about what that means in the coming months.
"They will be a building for dogs, with doggy chairs, a stream for the dogs to wallow in, low grass to play in, plenty of shade and dog-associated plants. This is not a deeply serious garden – it's playful."
Currently, only Guide Dogs are allowed at the Chelsea Flower Show, but Monty hopes to make the show more accessible.
"If the RHS allows, Ned will be there at Chelsea – and one of two other select dogs on Press Day. And, of course, Guide Dogs are always very welcome," he says.
"I am seriously excited about this. It's even keeping me awake at night. It will be a one-off. I've no intention of repeating it but I hope it will be truly spectacular."
It will also raise awareness of toxic plants that are harmful to pets through a sectioned-off area only for humans. Plant Expert and Horticulturist, Jamie Butterworth, will be working with Monty on the garden.
The garden is part of the RHS 'Your Space, Your Story' initiative, which will champion the individuality of all gardeners. Next year, the RHS will celebrate how outdoor spaces can bring to life every person's passion, from pet-friendly sanctuaries to small urban havens.
"It's exciting to be working with Radio 2 and Monty Don to create a garden that celebrates the connection between two of the UK's greatest loves – dogs and gardens. Nothing lifts us like a beautiful garden, and then, for a little bit of extra joy, we've added some wagging tails," says Clare Matterson, RHS Director General.
"Over 2025 we really want to celebrate how we're here for all gardeners; dog lovers, families, keen cooks, houseplant fanatics, everyone, and this garden is a great example of how individuals can all bring to life their passions in their outside spaces."
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