The Chelsea Flower Show has become a regular fixture in the Royal calendar since it was first held in 1913 following the success of an international horticultural exhibition organised by the Royal Horticultural Society in the grounds of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, the previous year. Since then it has been an annual event (with the exception of some years during the First and Second World Wars) and takes place in late May.

The Queen, as Patron of the Royal Horticultural Society, regularly attends the opening of the show, which begins with Press Day on the Monday followed by two private views for RHS members. Her Majesty is often accompanied by other members of the Royal Family. It is then open to the public until the final day, which is Saturday. The aim of the exhibitions is to encourage amateur gardeners of all standards to try to achieve similar displays in their own gardens.

One of the most outstanding displays in the shows history was the Coronation Empire Exhibition in 1937. Created to celebrate the Coronation of King George VI, exhibits included plants representing different parts of the Commonwealth.