Words by Lesley Bellew
A Kent exhibitor has enjoyed a royal visit at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
HRH King Charles looked the picture of health as he chatted to Ashford plantsman Paul Harris, of Brookfield Plants.
The King, Royal Patron of the RHS, discussed Yamadori bonsai with Paul, who was awarded a silver-gilt medal to add to his eight gold medals, at the world’s greatest flower show.
Paul continues to push the barriers at RHS Chelsea and this year’s ambitious stand has been designed with disabled access and will be transferred to the National Rehabilitation Centre (NRC) in Nottinghamshire after the show.
Paul’s biggest ever stand features a bridge, arch, koi carp, bonsai trees and a display of hostas, combining Paul’s interest in all things eastern.
Some 16 years ago Paul set up Brookfield Plants, in Sandyhurst Lane, Ashford, a nursery specialising in hostas, but it was not until five years ago that he became interested in bonsai trees, although he explains they are called Yamadori, trees collected from the wild.
Now he has around 350 Yamadori which take up to 50 years to fully develop. Paul, who has ‘always had an affinity with nature and wildlife’, collected many of his native trees while volunteering to clear shrub from Wye National Nature Reserve.
Paul said: “I have been to Japan four times and enjoy creating a themed stand at RHS Chelsea. It is even better to know the garden will have a new life, too. I have been supported by Nimbus Disability, a social enterprise run by disabled people for disabled people, who have helped me to create this inclusive garden exhibit.
“They advised me on ways to redefine accessibility in gardens with wide, level pathways alongside raised beds and a raised pond with Koi carp to add a calming influence, especially for those with neurodiverse conditions such as autism or sensory processing disorders.”
Nimbus Disability director of partnerships Mark Briggs said: “For too long, beautiful gardens and green spaces haven't been as accessible as they could be.
“This stand celebrates inclusivity by showcasing stunning design and features that can have a lasting positive impact for disabled people."
