David Austin
David Austin is best known for his English Roses which have been included in his exuberant Chelsea displays for many years.
Royal Horticultural Society How long have you been going to Chelsea?
David Austin Since 1981.
RHS The Chelsea Flower Show in five words:
DA Challenging, demanding, exhilarating, inspiring, rewarding.
RHS What do you enjoy most about Chelsea?
DA It’s when we’ve finally finished creating the stand to our satisfaction and are ready to welcome our visitors. English Rose lovers are very special people and their enthusiasm to see what we’ve created makes all the stress and effort worthwhile.
RHS Best Chelsea experience?
DA When we celebrated the company’s 25th anniversary and invited previous staff members for a reunion.
RHS What kind of garden do you have at home?
DA A fragrant rose garden of course!
RHS What’s your favourite plant or planting combination?
DA English Roses mingled with biennials and perennials.
RHS What’s your favourite style of garden design?
DA I like design that places the flowers right at the forefront of the stage and enchants the eyes – and nose – an opulent, sensual style of planting, but one that counterbalances freedom with classical restraint.
RHS Your top tip for surviving Chelsea?
DA Bring a dedicated team, with experience of the particular character and demands of Chelsea, and who work hard and have plenty of fun!
RHS What's the main trend for 2010?
DA We are seeing move away from highly structured garden designs towards more natural, less inhibited areas: designs for living.
RHS What do you do once Chelsea week is over?
DA I like to take a few days out to relax if I possibly can – but Chelsea signals the start of the busiest months back at the rose gardens and nursery in Albrighton, so sadly, it’s often straight back to work.