RHS Chelsea Flower Show

2012 marks the 99th anniversary of the start of the world famous RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

RHS Chelsea, the world's most renowned garden show begins next week. Here is a few historical facts about the show;

Did you know?

• RHS Chelsea Flower Show was originally called the RHS Great Spring Show, and that name has never officially been changed.

• Despite the First World War, the show was held in 1914 – 1916, but cancelled in 1917.

• In 1926 the show was held a week late due to the General Strike.

• Japanese dwarf trees, now known as bonsai, were first seen at the first show in 1913.

• The show was cancelled during the Second World War, when the land was requisitioned by the War Office for an anti-aircraft site.

• In 1937, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth celebrated their Coronation year, and an ‘Empire Exhibition’ was staged. It featured wattles from Australia, pines from Canada, gladioli from East Africa and even a prickly pear from Palestine.