Gardening for Gold: How One Pensioner’s Passion for Pickling Took Him to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show

As I wandered through the gardens of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, I stumbled upon a familiar face amidst the vibrant blooms and lush greenery. Gerald Stratford, a 72-year-old pensioner from Chipping Norton, was beaming with pride as he showcased his prized pickling jars on the shelves of the outdoor kitchen in the Parsley Box Sanctuary Garden. It was a moment of triumph for the passionate gardener, who has amassed a staggering 55,500 followers on Instagram for his posts on pickling and giant veg.

“My father encouraged me to copy him and to get stuck in with my own little veg patch, and from those tiny seeds, a big passion emerged that has been growing with age.” - Gerald Stratford

Gerald’s journey to the Chelsea Flower Show began when he won a nationwide talent search organized by Parsley Box, an over-60s ready meal provider. The competition aimed to give customers a chance to share their talents at the world-renowned show. Gerald’s impressive pickling skills and passion for growing big veg impressed the judging panel, earning him a spot alongside Karen Vatter, 61, from Essex, as one of the two winners.

Gerald’s giant veg creations have earned him a massive following on Instagram.

Gerald’s love affair with gardening began when he was just a young boy, helping his father in their backyard. As he grew older, his passion only intensified, and he now spends up to four to five hours a day responding to comments and questions on his Instagram page. His first book, Big Veg, was released earlier this month, packed with tips and growing tricks for fellow enthusiasts.

Gerald’s prized pickling jars on display at the Parsley Box Sanctuary Garden.

As I chatted with Gerald, it was evident that his enthusiasm for gardening and sharing his knowledge with others has only grown with age. He generously shares his expertise with his online fan base, making pickles, chutneys, and jam, as well as showcasing his giant veg creations.

Gerald Stratford, the passionate pensioner who won a spot at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Gerald’s story is a testament to the power of passion and dedication. As Adrienne MacAulay, co-founder of Parsley Box, aptly put it, “Passion doesn’t have a shelf life – in both cases, their enthusiasm and desire to help others has only grown with age.”

As I left the Chelsea Flower Show, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by Gerald’s remarkable journey. His story serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue our passions and share them with the world.