Talking trees powered by AI, drought-resistant crops and sweet potatoes sprouting among flowers — the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show is facing the future with a focus on innovation and climate-change adaptation.
Over five days starting Tuesday, more than 140,000 visitors are expected to view what the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) bills as “the pinnacle of horticultural excellence”.
There are stunning gardens, 30 competing for top awards, and more than 400 exhibitors showcasing their gardening knowledge and carefully-cultivated plants to the public and champagne-sipping VIPs.
King Charles III was to visit Monday with Queen Camilla, with an eye on the show’s first ever dog garden, designed by celebrity gardener Monty Don.
The head of state was also expected to visit the Wildlife Trusts’ British Rainforests garden where the main attraction is a 50-year-old fern that once thrived in the Great Park of Windsor.
The garden was “inspired by the enchanted forests of Arthurian legend” and it “rekindles the wild and wet woodlands that once swathed vast landscapes along the west coast”.
– Intelligent Garden –
In the Intelligent Garden, plant-lovers can truly talk to the trees thanks to artificial intelligence.
Pioneering AI sensors called Treetalk have been installed to give updates on the trees’ needs in urban environments, whether they are under stress and how to care for them.
“Urban trees filter air pollution, cool the air, support wildlife, and boost community wellbeing. Yet, they face immense challenges,” the RHS said about the garden designed by Tom Massey and architect Je Ahn.
About 50 percent of urban trees do not survive beyond 10 years and up to 30 percent die in their first year, it added.
“The use of AI is not going to replace a human being, our intuition and our labour. It’s still the core and heart of this garden,” said Je Ahn.
But data could give “a clearer picture of…
The Arab League Summit in Baghdad. (Photo: via UNAMI X Page) 
