Keeping the troops happy
One thing that is certain about the run up to Chelsea is that the weather is never right. This year is no exception.
The warmer weather in February meant an early start for shrubs like Ceanothus, meaning a long stint in cold store to slow them down. This is never our favourite option. The cold weather that followed during March and April has had a hard hitting effect on plants and the garden industry. Sales have been slow, and so have trees and shrubs growing outdoors.
Our exhibit always uses a large proportion of plants from the nursery beds, and at this stage these look doubtful as far as Chelsea is concerned. However, this week's warm sunshine could change everything. Rick (Ricky Dorlay is responsible for the preparation of all the plant material for the show) and I comfort each other with this thought. Neither of us believe that the new red floribunda roses we have publicised so much will ever make it for the show. 'Star of Britain' named in honour of the British Sailing team might be out in time for the Olympics, but this year's Chelsea - forget it!
I am always taken by surprise by how quickly the time goes in the final run up to Chelsea. Regardless of when Easter falls, as soon as it's over the show approaches all too quickly. Suddenly those decisions that have been postponed until 'nearer the show' have to be made.
Increasing interest from the press and media needs attention and the question on everyone's lips seems to be "are you all ready for Chelsea?" The answer, of course, is no! I haven't even drawn up a final working plan and I still have construction details to resolve - It's all very well having an idea but you still have to decide how to build it.
The members of the staging crew and the manning team are confirmed - hotel accommodation is booked and passes and uniform organised.
I have just bought the beer and wine to keep the troops happy - it's all a matter of getting your priorities right after all!
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