The Chelsea Flower Show opened on Monday with a star-studded lineup and an unexpected spotlight on dogs.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla were among the first to tour the renowned gardens, joined by celebrities including football legend David Beckham and actress Cate Blanchett. This year’s show places a strong emphasis on rewilding and sustainability, featuring naturalistic designs with mossy paving, native plants, and gravel paths.

Garden designers embraced the influence of climate change and the public's growing urge to reconnect with nature through wild, organic landscapes.

As patron of the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), King Charles was welcomed by RHS president Keith Weed. Queen Camilla admired "The King's Rose," a rose variety by David Austin Roses, during her visit.

While the gardens themselves dazzled, one exhibit captured particular attention—the RHS and BBC Radio 2 Dog Garden, designed by Monty Don. Tailored for canine comfort, the garden includes soft lawns, splash-worthy water features, and shady trees. Brick paths are inscribed with the names of beloved royal and celebrity pets, including the late Jack Russell Beth, Queen Camilla’s new puppy Moley, and the King’s dog Snuff.

Monty Don, a noted critic of traditional show gardens, was swayed by the opportunity to highlight the human-animal bond. He was seen playing with his own dog, Ned, in the exhibit. Although the dog garden won’t be judged or remain at the show, it will be relocated to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

In addition to Beckham and Blanchett, the preview event drew familiar faces such as Dame Joanna Lumley, actor David Tennant, and BBC presenter Zoe Ball, making for a memorable opening day at one of the world’s most celebrated horticultural events. Photo by Nzfauna, Wikimedia commons.