Growing Conditions · Wales
Cardiff Growing Conditions
Soil, hardiness and a planting calendar for Cardiff — across 5 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
A wet climate (1006mm a year): plants rarely go thirsty, but lean on good drainage, disease-resistant varieties and falls that shed water off paving and lawns. A long growing season (~351 frost-free days) — you can sow earlier and harvest later than most of the country, and squeeze in a second late sowing.
Planting Calendar for Cardiff
The long season allows a second sowing of quick crops in July.
Timings are guided by this area's ~351 frost-free days and RHS H4 hardiness; adjust for a cold or sheltered garden.
Conditions by Postcode
| Postcode | Soil | Hardiness | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| CF10 | loamy-clay with impeded drainage | RHS H4 | 1006mm |
| CF11 | loamy-clay with impeded drainage | RHS H4 | 1006mm |
| CF23 | loamy-clay with impeded drainage | RHS H4 | 1006mm |
| CF24 | heavy, base-rich clay loam that sits wet in winter | RHS H4 | 1006mm |
| CF5 | free-draining floodplain loam | RHS H4 | 1006mm |
Planning work in Cardiff?
Browse Companies House-registered landscaping businesses in the area.
