Jonathan Hogarth: Chelsea Flower Show GOLD Medal Winner, Miniature Hostas & the UK's National Collection

What does it take to earn a Gold Medal at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show?This week on Hosta La Vista, Betsy and Mandy welcome Jonathan Hogarth of Hogarth Hostas, holder of the UK's National Collection of Small and Miniature Hostas and newly crowned RHS Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal winner. After years of exhibiting at Britain's most famous flower shows and collecting multiple silver and silver-gilt medals, Jonathan achieved the highest honor in horticulture with his 2026 Chelsea display of miniature hostas. Jonathan shares the fascinating story behind his passion for small and miniature hostas, how he became the curator of the National Collection, and why these tiny treasures deserve a place in every shade garden. We discuss exhibiting at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the pressures of preparing an award-winning display, and what it felt like to finally hear the word "Gold." Along the way, we explore:The world's smallest and most collectible HostasGrowing miniature Hostas in containers and troughsBuilding and maintaining a National Plant CollectionRHS Chelsea Flower Show behind-the-scenes storiesSlug and snail control techniquesHosta care tips for gardeners with limited spaceThe 2027 AHS Indianapolis, IN national conventionWhether you're a seasoned collector, a shade gardening enthusiast, or simply curious about the fascinating world of miniature Hostas, this episode offers a rare glimpse into one of horticulture's most specialized and rewarding pursuits.Jonathan's collection has been featured at RHS Chelsea, RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, RHS Chatsworth, and RHS Malvern, where his displays have earned numerous awards and helped introduce thousands of gardeners to the beauty of miniature Hostas. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Jonathan's website at hogarth-hostas.co.uk and visit Hosta la Vista at hostalavista.org