THE RHS Chelsea Flower show is just around the corner (Tuesday, May 21 to Friday, May 25) and will doubtless plant some gardening seeds in your mind.

Vibe harvested Sydenham horticulturalist George Long, of Well Grounded Gardens, to sow some wisdom.

“The Chelsea Flower Show is a wonderful experience but avoid coming away with something you could buy at any garden centre when you could get some real inspiration for your garden.

“Anything is possible, but your garden isn’t a competition. Gardens at Chelsea take tremendous effort, cost and years of experience, and they may not work in your space.

“Their planting is designed to look great while the show is on but remember there are another eleven months to cater for. It would be impossible for your garden to look like that all year round.

“However, it is possible to translate elements of Chelsea into your own garden and make it interesting and just as attractive.

"Don’t be afraid to take plant lists from exhibitors at the show and buy unusual plants you saw.

“Some of the nicest plants in my garden have been due to trying something new, if you hate it you can always try something else.

“If you’re a bit of a DIY expert or have a good builder, try and recreate architectural shapes that have taken your fancy. Anything can be built, it’s just about the right person doing it.

“For gardens with less space, you need plants that give more bang for your buck. Choose plants that have long lasting flowers or have nice foliage or berries after the flowers have gone.

“Plants that don’t flower for long are Peonies, Delphinium Pacific Hybrids and Lilies whereas Astrantia, Knautia, Scabiosa, Nepeta and Penstemon flower for months.

“Deadheading will also improve the length of floral displays in most plants. Plants grow differently in everyone’s garden, so there’s only one way to find out; be inspired and get out and try things!

“If you’re not sure of what to do or want help finding ways to improve your garden, ask a designer, it’s what we are here for.”

George’s seasonal tips for May and June

“Prune spring flowering shrubs and climbers that have finished flowering.

“Repair, feed and start mowing lawns. Deal with slugs, snails and other pests before they become a problem. Lift and divide summer flowering perennials and bulb clumps. Sow or lay new lawns before it gets too dry.”