We’re fast approaching the magical month of May, when spring really has sprung, the weather is warm, the smiles are broad… and the Chelsea Flower Show takes place each and every year.

Except for this year, unfortunately, as a result of the global pandemic and the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the crisis, which has convinced the show organisers that it would, sadly, be wise to hold the main event later in the year instead.

For the very first time in the 108 year history of the Chelsea Flower Show, it will be held in autumn, taking place this year between September 21st and 26th. While it might be disappointing to hear of the delay, the RHS will still hold a Virtual Chelsea Flower Show online, during the May show week. Moreover, although it won’t be possible to see the gardens in person in May, it certainly promises to be an interesting event in September, as the look and feel of the exhibits will have to reflect the change in season, adapting to the time of year.

One of the most decorated female RHS Chelsea designers is Sarah Eberle – and she took home the gold for her Resilience Garden in 2019. She had this to say about the change of date: “The later show dates give us the rare opportunity to work with plants for a different season. This will be a historic event for many reasons and that is something to celebrate.

“September is my favourite month and it has a rich tapestry of plant interest. September light is also very special and I think will make the gardens memorable.”

And Robert Myers, designer of The Florence Nightingale Garden; A Celebration of Modern Day Nursing, said he is now “itching” to see how the other designers use the autumn plant palette in their gardens, adding that this is shaping up to be “a rather unique and memorable autumn Chelsea”.

Of course, just because we have to wait a few months more than initially planned for the Chelsea Flower Show this year doesn’t mean that we can’t enjoy our gardens right now – and spring is always a wonderful time to get out and about, spending time in nature.

In fact, research just published by the RHS to mark National Gardening Week this year has revealed gardening every day has the same impact on our health and wellbeing as taking regular vigorous exercise like running or cycling.

After surveying over 6,000 people, it was found that those who garden every day have wellbeing scores 6.6 per cent higher and stress levels 4.2 per cent lower than those who never garden at all.

So, if you have been feeling a little low of late, why not head outside now the weather has picked up a bit and see what you can grow?

Of course, you’ll need to have somewhere to put your dead heads, offcuts and garden waste, so why not invest in one of our environmentally friendly, waste separation bins to help you keep your outdoor spaces lovely, tidy and welcoming?