When Matron Went to Chelsea Part 2

 There is so much colour, perfume and taste at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.  But it is not all about flowers.. actually! This wonderful stand from Trinidad and Tobago had a stunning display of both tropical flowers and spices.

 Look how the nutmeg grows.  Encased in a fleshy fruit (which can be made into a tasty preserve) is the nutmeg which itself is surrounded by this red, lace outer - this is the spice known as Mace.  But inside this hard shell which must be cracked open, is the nutmeg.  One of my favourite spices.

 And everyone's favourite tropical edible is Cocoa.  Look at this wonderful display.

 Of course, one  of my favourite displays at RHS Chelsea is this amazing selection of potato varieties from Thompson & Morgan.  Potatoes were grouped into geographical areas of origin.

 Potato groups which came from South America, France, Netherlands, The USA and from Scotland had wonderful individual groups. When you look at just the humble old spud, I wonder if people realise just how many different varieties are available to grow in the UK.

So a big thumbs up for Thompson and Morgan for this wonderful display. This one gets Matron's Gold Medal !