RHS lifting gnome ban at 2026 Chelsea Flower Show

Garden gnomes are making a comeback at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2026.

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has confirmed it will lift its long-standing ban on colorful decorations for the 2026 event; This marks only the second time in the show’s history that the rule has been relaxed.

This time the move aims to raise funds for the RHS School Gardening Campaign, which inspires children to get hands-on with plants while improving wellbeing, skills and environmental awareness.

As part of the initiative, a number of celebrities will be invited to decorate their own gnomes, which will be displayed at the world-famous show before going up for auction.

The fun figures will feature in the RHS and The King’s Foundation Curious Garden, a special exhibition designed to spark curiosity and highlight the joy of gardening.

The garden also references a tradition at Highgrove, King Charles’ residence in Gloucestershire; here dwarves are often seen lurking in the Stumpery.

The RHS has teamed up with The King’s Foundation to create the garden, which will be unveiled at the 2026 fair, which runs from 19 May to 23 May.

It is being designed by horticultural expert and TV presenter Frances Tophill, with support from ambassadors including Sir David Beckham and Alan Titchmarsh.

Big names who have already signed up to paint the gnomes include Cate Blanchett, Dame Mary Berry, Sir Brian May and Baroness Floella Benjamin, with more to be announced ahead of the event.

The RHS last lifted the ban in 2013 as part of centenary celebrations attended by stars including Sir Elton John and Dame Joanna Lumley.

RHS Chief Executive Clare Matterson said: “We have never needed the joy of gardening more, the power of plants for our planet or the tranquility of simply sitting in a garden.

“We also want people to have fun gardening, so we are lifting the gnome ban… helping to spark interest in gardening in school children.”