Petersham Nurseries in Richmond makes its Chelsea Flower Show debut

Tucked between Richmond Park and the Thames, Petersham Nurseries has long been a favourite escape for Londoners. This year it took its love of plants to a national stage, making its debut at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Petersham Nurseries was established 20 years ago by Francesco and Gael Boglione, growing from a small nursery beside their garden into a business that spans horticulture, hospitality and retail. Throughout, it has kept its focus on planting, landscape and the environment.

For Chelsea 2026, the team created a Houseplant Studio in the Conservatory, inside the Great Pavilion. The design drew on the conservatory at Petersham House, described as "a simple space containing an established collection of plants that surrounds visitors." Tree ferns and philodendron formed the framework, while jasmine and other flowering climbers covered the walls to bring colour, scent and shade.

The planting list was a houseplant lover's dream. It included Stephanotis floribunda, an evergreen climber with scented summer flowers, the tree fern Dicksonia antarctica, Philodendron 'Imperial Red', the bright green bird's nest fern Asplenium antiquum, staghorn ferns in hanging displays, and evergreen jasmine trained across the walls. The enclosed space was designed to support socialising, creativity and quiet reflection.

Back in Richmond, the nursery offers much more than plants. There is a café and a restaurant whose cooking South West Londoner describes as Italian British, with meat from the family owned Haye Farm in Devon. The restaurant has held a Michelin Green Star for its sustainable approach, which events manager Charlotte Hollands said reflects "the seasonality of our local and organic ingredients" and efforts to reduce emissions and food waste.

The nursery also runs seasonal workshops, from flower arranging and kokedama to wreath making and classes on edible flowers, and its shop sells flowers, gifts and homeware.

Staff say the setting feels a world away from the city. "Working here, you don't realise you're in the city," said Hollands.

Petersham Nurseries is on Church Lane, off Petersham Road, near Richmond. For opening times, workshops and restaurant bookings, visit petershamnurseries.com.