Kew's Tropical Extravaganza 2012

Displays of exotic tropical flowers and foliage in the Princess of Wales Conservatory form the centrepiece of Kew's colourful annual festival. The theme for 2012 is 'Forces of Nature', with displays inspired by the elements air, fire, water and earth, and arranged according to colour – including hanging baskets filled with blooms in aquatic hues and arches decorated with reds, yellows and oranges to represent fire. The festival also illustrates how plants and fungi depend on and moderate the elements. In addition, there are hands-on sessions and behind-the-scenes tours including a tour of the tropical nursery followed by a Q&A session (1.30pm, 2pm, 2.30pm every Sat; £5; booking essential on 020 8332 5604); see the website for full details.