Growing Conditions · England
Bath and North East Somerset Growing Conditions
Soil, hardiness and a planting calendar for Bath and North East Somerset — across 9 postcode districts.
Soil
A workable loam-to-clay that drains slowly, so water can pond after heavy rain and roots sit cold in winter. Most shrubs and perennials do well once established; add grit and compost for vegetables, and choose damp-tolerant plants for low spots. Landscaping projects should plan for falls, French drains or soakaways so paving and lawns shed water.
Winter hardiness
Rated RHS H4 — the UK mainstream, with winter lows near -6°C. The vast majority of garden plants, perennials, shrubs and trees come through a normal winter unprotected; only genuinely tender exotics need a warm corner or cover.
Rain & growing season
Moderate rainfall (882mm a year) — enough for most gardens without heavy irrigation, though pots and new plantings need watering in summer. A typical UK growing season (~339 frost-free days), with the last frosts clearing through spring and first frosts returning in autumn.
Planting Calendar for Bath and North East Somerset
Timings are guided by this area's ~339 frost-free days and RHS H4 hardiness; adjust for a cold or sheltered garden.
Conditions by Postcode
| Postcode | Soil | Hardiness | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| BA1 | loamy-clay with impeded drainage | RHS H4 | 882mm |
| BA15 | alkaline clay loam with impeded drainage | RHS H4 | 882mm |
| BA2 | thin, alkaline soil over chalk | RHS H4 | 882mm |
| BA3 | thin, alkaline soil over chalk | RHS H4 | 882mm |
| BS14 | free-draining acid loam — the classic 'good garden soil' | RHS H4 | 882mm |
| BS31 | loamy-clay with impeded drainage | RHS H4 | 882mm |
| BS39 | acid clay loam, seasonally wet | RHS H4 | 882mm |
| BS40 | loamy-clay with impeded drainage | RHS H4 | 882mm |
| BS41 | alkaline clay loam with impeded drainage | RHS H4 | 882mm |
Planning work in Bath and North East Somerset?
Browse Companies House-registered landscaping businesses in the area.
