SPARSHOLT College has teamed up with Wadworth Brewery to tell the historic story of the hop for its Chelsea Flower Show exhibit.

For those who don’t know their fuggle from their wort the Hop Cycle garden will demonstrate the many uses and properties of the hop and the many pressures over time which has reduced their range and availability.

Designed and created by a team of 14 horticulture students the display features two garden areas – one planted with species that make or flavour drinks and the other a pub garden to relax and enjoy in.

Visitors to this year’s world-famous flower show will be able to see the exhibit in the RHS Discover area.

Horticulture expert Chris Bird, who is leading the student team, said: “Exhibiting at RHS Chelsea is a thrill for any gardener. For our students it is an incredible experience which requires them to draw on all their skills and knowledge.

“Our purpose at Sparsholt is to train the next generation of horticulturists and what greater start to their careers then having their work showcased on an international platform.

Paul Sullivan, Wadworth sales and marketing director, said: “We are simply delighted to be involved in this project for the Chelsea Flower Show and to be working with the remarkably talented staff and students of Sparsholt College.”