Celebrities call for permanent end to gnome ban at Chelsea flower show

Celebrities including Bill Bailey and Alan Titchmarsh have publicly called for the Royal Horticultural Society to lift the ban on garden gnomes permanently at the Chelsea flower show, citing cultural and humorous reasons. The call comes amid a rare, one-year exception to the longstanding prohibition, which has been in place since 1927.

At this year’s Chelsea flower show, which opened on Tuesday in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, the RHS has made a one-off decision to allow gnomes to be displayed and auctioned to raise funds for its school gardening campaign. Historically, gnomes have been considered ‘tacky’ and banned from the event since 1927.

During the press day, Bill Bailey showcased a gnome he painted with a purple and gold striped hat, emphasizing the historical significance of gnomes as guardians of the garden dating back to Roman times. Alan Titchmarsh, who painted his gnome in a blue suit, argued that they add fun and remind us of childhood innocence. Both celebrities urged the RHS to consider making the ban permanent, framing gnomes as cultural icons rather than kitsch.

Why It Matters

The campaign to lift the gnome ban touches on broader debates about tradition versus modern gardening aesthetics. If successful, it could influence future RHS policies, encouraging more playful and diverse garden displays. The move also highlights how celebrity influence can impact institutional decisions and fundraising strategies.

Background

The Chelsea flower show has maintained a strict stance against gnomes for nearly a century, viewing them as symbols of tackiness. However, recent years have seen a shift toward rewilding and embracing more naturalistic garden styles, sometimes at odds with traditionalist views. The current event marks a notable exception, driven by fundraising needs and celebrity advocacy.

“The origins of gnomes, as you well know, is the Latin gnomus, meaning earth dweller. The Romans had them as guardians of the garden, and to protect against malign spirits. So I think they have been much maligned.”

— Bill Bailey

“Mine is in a blue suit to match me and he also has a red and white striped tie but you can’t see it because he has a giant beard. It took me ages to paint it.”

— Alan Titchmarsh

“They’re wildflowers! I love nettles, they’re good for butterflies. No, we need them in the garden, we want to attract wildlife.”

— Alan Titchmarsh

What Remains Unclear

It remains unclear whether the RHS will decide to make the gnome allowance permanent after this year’s event or revert to the traditional ban. The influence of celebrity advocacy and the king’s preferences may impact future policies, but no official decision has been announced.

What’s Next

The RHS will likely evaluate the outcomes of this year’s auction and public response before deciding on future policy. Additional celebrity participation and public opinion may influence whether gnomes are permanently reinstated at the Chelsea flower show.

Key Questions

Will garden gnomes be permanently allowed at the Chelsea flower show?

It is not yet confirmed. The RHS has made a one-year exception this year, and discussions are ongoing about making the allowance permanent, influenced by celebrity advocacy and fundraising success.

Why were gnomes banned from the Chelsea flower show?

The ban originated in 1927, based on the perception that gnomes were tacky or kitsch, conflicting with the show’s traditional aesthetic standards.

Who are the celebrities involved in this campaign?

Bill Bailey, Alan Titchmarsh, David Beckham, Dame Mary Berry, Sir Brian May, and Floella Benjamin have all painted gnomes for the auction to support the campaign.

What is the purpose of auctioning the gnomes?

The gnomes are being auctioned to raise funds for the RHS’s school gardening campaign, which aims to involve children in horticulture.

A Luxury Lifestyle Team