The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is facing a conservative backlash over its peat-free compost policy and corporate sponsorships, as its latest accounts show a net loss of £8.1 million for the year ending January 2025. The Chelsea Flower Show, which ended on Saturday, featured King Charles and David Beckham, but critics argue the organization has strayed from its traditional roots.
Financial Struggles and Sponsorship Changes
The RHS's accounts filed with the Charity Commission reveal losses doubled from the previous year. However, the RHS says unpublished accounts for the last financial year show a 7% income increase and a cash profit of £4.8 million, with record garden visits and membership sign-ups this April. The Chelsea Flower Show lost a mystery philanthropic couple who had contributed over £23 million, and the Newt hotel, a longstanding sponsor, launched its own garden show. The RHS is seeking new charity sponsors.
Peat-Free Policy Sparks Controversy
The RHS transitioned to peat-free shops in January, citing environmental damage from peat extraction. Critics, including award-winning exhibitor Tim Penrose, claim this policy is financially harmful. Penrose, banned from exhibiting after failing to attend anti-peat seminars, protested in a Superman suit and received a lifetime ban. He said, "You go too woke, you could go broke." Others on social media echoed concerns, with some noting that nurseries growing carnivorous plants cannot use peat-free compost. However, TV gardener Monty Don supports the ban, calling peat users "lazy and irresponsible."
Corporate Sponsorship Criticized
Social media users also criticized a garden featuring a Range Rover, sponsored by the car manufacturer. One comment read, "Selling your soul to the corporate elite isn't what horticulture is about." An RHS spokesperson defended the show, stating there is high interest from sponsors for 2027 and that most nurseries support the peat-free transition.
