Five reasons to volunteer at an RHS Show
Helping at one of our famous flower shows can be highly rewarding, say five volunteers who have discovered much more than just plants at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show
Standing out in bright purple tops, volunteers are the welcoming face of the RHS at any of our flower shows. They can help with any questions you might have, guide you to specific plants in the Floral Marquee and even assist with purchases in the RHS retail shops. In return, they gain just as much: friendships, horticultural knowledge and unforgettable days out.
Here, five people who have volunteered at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show for several years explain what keeps them coming back.
“I’ve grown more confident”
Lakshmi Chappiti loves assisting visitors with their purchases in the RHS shops
Lakshmi has been volunteering at the RHS outlets of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show for five years. “I initially stepped into the role with a dual purpose,” Lakshmi said. “Like any gardener, I find the RHS Shows an invaluable resource for gathering new ideas for my own green spaces. However, I wanted to go beyond that. Volunteering in the RHS shop has allowed me to sharpen my communication skills and grow more confident in engaging with the public, whether guiding them through their purchases or helping them navigate the different areas of the show.”
Now, it’s not the plants but the people who keep her coming back. She enjoys reconnecting with fellow volunteers and building new connections by working with different people each year. “One of the most rewarding surprises has been the lasting friendships I’ve formed. I discovered a couple who live in my local area – people I might never have crossed paths with if it weren’t for our shared time at the shows.”
Reflecting on her experience, Lakshmi said volunteering has taught her the value of teamwork and collaboration towards a common goal. “It’s a unique experience that rewards me just as much as I give.”
“I’m learning more about plants”
Volunteering at RHS Chelsea has given Vaishali Panwar a new platform to explore plants
After three years as a Garden Feature Volunteer – a role that involves speaking to visitors about the concept, design, messaging and planting behind the RHS Feature Gardens – Vaishali has expanded her knowledge and confidence in horticulture.
“Each show introduces me to new plants, new ideas and new people who share their experiences generously. The combination of learning, networking and feeling genuinely appreciated by the RHS makes it a highly rewarding experience that I want to be part of again and again. I’ve also gained valuable professional connections across the UK horticulture community, which is incredibly important for my future career in horticulture research.”
Plus, it’s a lot of fun. “I especially enjoy when visitors or exhibitors ask questions and I can use my scientific knowledge to explain plant behaviour, physiology or propagation. Those small interactions make me feel like I’m contributing something meaningful.”
“I’m supporting the RHS charitable work”
“I know that having people sign up as RHS members contributes to the charity’s work, supporting community gardens, schools, scientific research and other initiatives,” said Lisa, who is also a volunteer at RHS Garden Wisley. She holds other volunteer roles at the Tower of London, the Science Museum and Shakespeare’s Globe.Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Lisa Syne said it was special to see their display win a Gold medal at the 2023 RHS Chelsea Flower Show
Lisa’s mum at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 1965, before Lisa was even born
“I’m seeing the behind the scenes”
Nathan Oley saw the Late Queen Elizabeth II enjoy her last visit at RHS Chelsea in 2022
In 2022, he even saw the Late Queen Elizabeth II enjoy her last visit. “That’s a very special memory. I also love meeting international guests – especially Americans! Their enthusiasm and wonder dispel any feelings of being worn out after a day on my feet.”
As Nathan moves into a career in horticulture, volunteering has been the most incredible way of learning and networking. “It has given me absolutely priceless access and exposure, while enjoying the privilege of seeing behind the scenes of the show. I’ve also planted my own garden with the terrific hauls from the Saturday sell-offs. So happy memories blossom and bloom every summer!”
“I can work alongside garden designers”
Shereen enjoys exchanging horticultural knowledge with visitors and noticing planting trends
“If I have to think of what keeps me coming back, it’s the people and the plants,” said Shereen. “Volunteering on a Feature Garden means that you get to see the plant lists and listen to the designer talk through ideas for the garden. It’s a great way to look out for small details, which could otherwise be easily missed, and then share those insights with visitors.”
Exchanging horticultural knowledge and noticing planting trends is what she enjoys most about her role. “In 2024, Cornus controversa was one of the most popular plants on the Britain in Bloom garden. A visitor who had travelled from Leeds was delighted to show me a photograph of her 10ft plant and explain how she achieved it.”
“In 2025, the trend was about Lunaria annua. I liked that such a retro plant was given a moment to shine and that people were drawn to it, so hopefully we will see more honesty back in gardens.”
