Monty Don will design his first Chelsea Flower Show garden next May with a dog-friendly theme.

       It will feature a well-kept lawn on which dogs can sleep and play, with a large tree to cast shade on the grass and spring-flowering bulbs.

       The garden is a collaboration between Radio 2 and the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), and will also include brick paths inscribed with the names of dogs belonging to the channel’s presenters, RHS ambassadors and Mr Don’s pet Ned.

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       The names of the Queen’s Jack Russell terriers – Beth and Bluebell – will also appear in the garden. The animals were adopted from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, of which the Queen is a patron and the garden will be moved there after the show, the RHS said.

       Some celebrity dogs will make an appearance at the show, which is normally restricted to only guide and assistance dogs because of the crowds, along with police sniffer dogs for security.

       Mr Don said: “This is an irresistible opportunity to join with the RHS and Radio 2 to share my love of gardens and dogs at the world’s greatest horticultural event.”

       He said the team, led by Jamie Butterworth, a horticulturalist, will make a display inspired by his own garden at Longmeadow and his dogs, but that it was “above all a celebration of the way that so many of us share our gardens with our canine companions”.

       The focus is expected to be on creating a space for dogs and owners regardless of horticultural trends.

       ‘Dream come true’

       Jo Whiley, the Radio 2 presenter, will support the garden on air by encouraging listeners to choose songs for a special “doggy playlist” that will be heard from a summer house in the garden.

       She said: “This is a dream come true, bringing my passion for gardening and my love of dogs together for this very special garden.”

       Clare Matterson, the director general of the RHS, said: “It’s exciting to be working with Radio 2 and Monty Don to create a garden that celebrates the connection between two of the UK’s greatest loves – dogs and gardens.

       “Nothing lifts us like a beautiful garden, and then, for a little bit of extra joy, we’ve added some wagging tails.”

       The RHS and Radio 2 garden is part of an initiative by the society to champion the individuality of gardeners.

       Ms Matterson said: “Over 2025, we really want to celebrate how we’re here for all gardeners; dog lovers, families, keen cooks, houseplant fanatics, everyone.”