A Modern Apothecary Garden

This garden will be relocated to the St. John's Hospice after the show to provide a calming, reflective space for St. John's Hospice patients and their families.

The garden The inspiration for 'A Modern Apothecary' is based on extensive conversations with doctors and care professionals about ways to improving health within the context of gardens and plants. "In Ayurvedic medicine, when one is poorly, doctors often ask patients to sit in the herb garden. The simple act of sitting within a garden, surrounded by plants, has a calming effect and can lift spirits", explains Jekka. Jekka has designed a soothing garden, with 'Wellness' at its heart, to highlight the vital relationship between medicine and nature. Grown at Jekka's Herb Farm, the garden will feature research-based plants known to be beneficial to the health and wellbeing of society.

"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food." - Hippocrates Curves and symmetry throughout the garden enhance a sense of calm and peacefulness in the garden. "Circles and curves, which one can follow ease tension and allow one to slowly unwind", explains Jekka. Scented plants line the curving paths toward the water feature. The water provides the interactive focal point, sound and movement to the garden. Specially designed oak benches provide a place to sit, to be surrounded by scented plants for tranquil reflection. 

New to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the outer part of the garden is given over to a herb ley, packed with native herbs and grasses. Enclosing the garden, espalier apple trees, columns of yew and hawthorns provide safe seclusion for quiet reflection.The whole garden is overseen by a sculpture of Asclepius's staff, which is the symbol of healing.

"I hope that the garden can provide the patients of the St. John's Hospice and their families comfort through sensory stimulation, and above all a place of quiet reflection." Jekka McVicar.

Plant List:

Herb Lay (outer part of the garden):