The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is facing a conservative backlash at its Chelsea Flower Show, which concludes on Saturday, amidst financial losses and criticism over its shift towards peat-free compost and corporate sponsorship. The show featured King Charles, David Beckham, and a Viking-themed allotment, but critics argue the RHS has lost its traditional focus.
Financial Struggles
The RHS's latest accounts filed with the Charity Commission show a net loss of £8.1 million for the year ending January 2025, double the previous year's losses. The charity attributed the earlier shortfall to roadworks on the A3 and M25 affecting visits to RHS Garden Wisley. However, unpublished accounts for the most recent financial year indicate a healthier position, with income up 7% and a cash profit of £4.8 million, alongside £83 million invested in charitable work. The RHS also reported record garden visits and membership sign-ups in April.
Sponsorship Concerns
Concerns have been raised about the Chelsea Flower Show's sponsorship after a mystery couple who donated over £23 million ended their support. Additionally, the Newt hotel in Somerset, a longtime sponsor, launched its own garden show this year, offering free entry to under-16s, contrasting with Chelsea's lack of discounted child tickets.
Conservative Criticism
The backlash has been fueled by comments from the RHS treasurer, who noted that financial difficulties might be worsened by the transition to peat-free shops, implemented in January to protect the environment. Critics, including award-winning exhibitor Tim Penrose, argue the RHS has become too 'woke'. Penrose, banned from exhibiting after failing to attend anti-peat seminars, protested in a Superman suit and received a lifetime ban. He stated, 'They just don't like me speaking out... You go too woke, you could go broke.'
Peat Debate
The RHS has faced criticism for not banning peat sooner, with TV gardener Monty Don describing peat users as 'lazy and irresponsible'. The government has pledged to ban peat sales but has not yet enacted legislation. Penrose's sentiments have been echoed on social media, where users also criticised a garden featuring a Range Rover, a new sponsor, and AI-designed gardens. One commenter wrote, 'Nurseries who have supported the RHS for years are being forced out because their plants cannot be grown in peat-free compost.'
RHS Response
An RHS spokesperson expressed confidence in the future, stating, 'RHS Chelsea is thriving and there is high interest from sponsors to do gardens in 2027. The vast majority of nurseries are with us as we transition to peat free for the planet.' The RHS declined to comment on Penrose's statements.
