The 2026 Chelsea Flower Show is bringing Britain’s top garden designs to television screens this May. Whether you can’t make it to London or prefer to enjoy the blooms from the comfort of home, BBC’s comprehensive coverage has you covered.
- BBC airs 11 episodes covering the entire event.
- Coverage begins Sunday 17 May with a preview show.
- Special gardening segment with Dame Mary Berry on 22 May.
What happened
The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the premier horticultural events in the UK, organized by the Royal Horticultural Society. Each year, it showcases stunning gardens and the latest gardening trends right in the heart of London. For those unable to attend the in-person event, the 2026 show will be fully televised, offering multiple daily programs across BBC One and BBC Two.
Starting on Sunday 17 May, the broadcast schedule kicks off with 'RHS: Countdown to Chelsea' on BBC Two, providing an exclusive sneak peek of the gardens and themes for this year. From Monday to Friday, viewers can catch twice-daily episodes at 2pm on BBC One and 8pm on BBC Two, with an additional special episode featuring Dame Mary Berry airing on Friday evening.
Why it feels good
Watching the Chelsea Flower Show from home offers a relaxing and inspiring way to enjoy beautiful garden designs and seasonal trends without the hassle of travel. The BBC’s detailed coverage brings viewers close to the action and highlights, sharing expert insights and charming stories that resonate with gardening enthusiasts and novices alike.
The inclusion of a Dame Mary Berry special adds a warm and familiar touch to the week’s programming, inviting viewers to explore the art of growing peonies alongside a beloved gardening personality. This accessible approach to gardening education makes the show enjoyable for families and individuals looking to add a bit of springtime joy to their day.
What to enjoy or watch next
To make the most of the Chelsea Flower Show broadcast, mark your calendar for the preview on Sunday, followed by the daily highlights through the week at 2pm and 8pm. Don’t miss the special Dame Mary Berry episode on Friday evening for a delightful gardening mission on peonies.
If you want to revisit prior years or catch up on missed episodes, BBC iPlayer still offers access to all the 2025 Chelsea Flower Show programs. This is a fantastic resource for extending the season’s gardening inspiration and enjoying even more expert tips and garden tours from past shows.