The Microbiome Garden - Chelsea Flower Show 2024

Shortly after publishing my previous blog post on refined sugar—where I discussed its impact on our gut and feelings and where I emphasized the importance of integrating food cultivation into our lives—I came across the captivating “Microbiome Garden” by Chris Hull and Sid Hill at the 2024 Chelsea Flower Show.

I was delighted to find out how ongoing research is increasingly linking gut health with the cultivation of partly edible gardens, underscoring our relationship with the environment.

For this prestigious show, which offers a remarkable platform for garden designers to showcase their talents and win prestigious medals, the designers artfully incorporated appealing edible plants such as Mediterranean Lupins (Lupinus albus), Camassias, and Persicaria Bistorta...

I believe that similar benefits for our gut health can be achieved by cultivating more commonplace edible plants like herbs and tomatoes. Personally, I've started cultivating sweet potatoes for their edible foliage. Hailing from Réunion Island, we cook sweet potato leaves known locally as "brèdes patates". I also grow tomatoes, pepper, herbs, cassava, and a few fruit trees...

It's noteworthy that approximately 90% of our serotonin, a neurotransmitter crucial for mood regulation, is produced in the gut.

Therefore, a flourishing garden teeming with edible plants not only nurtures a healthy gut but also contributes to overall happiness and well-being.

As a side note, if you share my passion for plants and gardening, I encourage you to explore the wonders of the Chelsea Flower Show in London.

As a precautionary note, please conduct your own research when it comes to edible plants, as often only specific part(s) of the plant are suitable for consumption.

If you like my post and my work, lets stay in touch! Subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on social media. A little help from you goes a long way! Have a great day.

Raphael from Etophe