Next month, the timeless legacy of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, established 300 years ago as a sanctuary for soldiers aged and wounded by conflict, will be represented in a garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
The Chelsea Pensioners, who are retired veterans of the British Army residing at the Royal Hospital in London, have contributed to the garden’s design, which pays tribute to their iconic scarlet uniforms.
Jim Lycett, who enlisted in the Army at the age of 15, expressed that gardening has introduced “another dimension” to his life, and he frequently spends time at the hospital’s allotments.
Dave Green, the designer behind the 2023 Contemplation and Celebration garden, which honors the late Queen, stated that he felt “incredibly fortunate” to collaborate with the Chelsea Pensioners on their garden.
Having served in Germany and the Middle East, Mr. Lycett eventually returned to a position in London. He shared, “Watching the roses bloom brings me joy because they require so much effort. I simply love to see how anything I plant flourishes.”
Barbara Whilds, who has called the Royal Hospital home for 15 years, highlighted the significance of the allotments to her.
She described the show garden as “a small haven, a peaceful oasis.”
The Chelsea Pensioners’ garden features a woodland design adorned with vibrant plants around the perimeter, symbolizing their colorful attire.
In the center, there is a seating area equipped with cushions fashioned from recycled scarlet uniforms.
Mr. Green noted, “Upon entering the garden, visitors will find a more textured and subdued planting scheme, complemented by blue flowers reminiscent of the blue uniforms that the pensioners wear daily.”
After the exhibition, the garden will be permanently established at the Royal Hospital, where pensioners can enjoy it alongside their families, local residents, or fellow veterans who do not live at the hospital.
Mr. Green referred to it as “a genuine long-term legacy initiative.”
Any former soldier of the British Army over the age of 65 facing the prospect of spending their twilight years in solitude is encouraged to apply for residence at the Royal Hospital as a Chelsea Pensioner.
