At the centre of the garden is a neatly mown lawn, which though tended, is essential for canine sprawling, sleeping, rolling, flopping, itching and chasing balls. A large tree provides shade on the grass to stretch out on a warm afternoon while surrounded by ‘balls’ of alliums and topiary.
The lawn drifts into longer grass planted with ornamental spring flowering bulbs to create a tameflower, rather than wildflower meadow. Brick paths run straight creating vistas – a touch of Monty Don’s own Longmeadow garden – with one providing the route through the garden for visitors and another leading to the summerhouse.
To reflect the special place dogs hold in our hearts and our gardens, the paths is inscribed with the names of dogs belonging to Radio 2 presenters and RHS ambassadors, as well as Monty’s beloved dog Ned. As Patron of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, where the Garden for Dogs will live on after RHS Chelsea, Her Majesty The Queen’s adopted Jack Russell Terriers, Beth and Bluebell, also feature on the path.
Within the RHS and Radio 2 Dog Garden is a sectioned off area for humans to enjoy a beautiful tapestry of plants, and for dogs to visit only when supervised by their owners. This space raises awareness of certain plants that are toxic to dogs and other pets, in a mixture of planting of familiar yet favourite plants.
