How to survive the Chelsea Flower Show

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

Going to Chelsea for the first time? You will need to be prepared for one of the most punishing events of the season - but, if planned right, also one of the most rewarding. Here is the Evening Standard's Chelsea Flower Show Survival Guide...

Shoes: There is, quite simply, nothing more important than wearing the right footwear. Wear comfortable shoes and forget stilettoes - you might find yourself stuck in the mud during one of Chelsea's infamous downpours and Diarmuid Gavin is not going come and pull you out.

Be weather prepared: Carry a light raincoat but don't take an umbrella - some of those Gloucestershire matrons don't take kindly to being poked in the shin by a brolly.

Plan ahead: Buy your catalogue in advance - it can be ordered along with your tickets - and then use the map inside to plan your day.

Local knowledge: A little goes a long way. For instance, the loos in Western Avenue often have shorter queues.

Water: Carry a couple of bottles to avoid shelling out for some overpriced bottled stuff of dubious provenance.

Plant Societies' Stands: Don't forget to visit them - you can get specialist advice and find some interesting rarities.

Credit card: Take one if you cannot resist being the first to buy new varieties. On second thoughts, leave it behind.

Get there early: Doors open at 8am, and it is soon crowded.

Tact: Try to avoid saying out loud things like, "My six-year-old could have done better." The person next to you is probably the designer.

Bun fight: If you are feeling strong, try the plant sale at the end of the show. It is signalled by a bell at 4pm and makes the Harrods sale look like a walk in the park. But check what you are buying is in good condition.

When: Tuesday 22 May, Wednesday 23 May, RHS members only; Thursday 24 May, Friday 25 May, 8am-8pm; Saturday 26 May, 8am-5.30pm.

Where: Royal Hospital, Chelsea.

Nearest Tube: Sloane Square.

Entrances: Royal Hospital Road and Chelsea Embankment. Don't take the car - parking is very limited.

For more information, go to www.rhs.org.uk/chelsea/2007