Last Frost Dates in the UK: What Gardeners Need to Know
A last frost date is a planning estimate, not a promise that cold nights are finished. For tender vegetables, local conditions matter more than any single date.
Why frost dates vary
Coastal areas, inland valleys, altitude and local exposure can all affect frost risk. Even neighbouring gardens may experience different temperatures.
Which crops are frost-sensitive?
Tomatoes and French beans are tender and should not be planted outdoors until frost risk has passed and conditions are suitably warm. Hardy crops such as peas and some leafy vegetables can be started earlier with appropriate care.
Use forecasts as well as averages
Historical averages can help you plan, but always check a current local weather forecast before moving tender seedlings outside. Have fleece or a sheltered spot available if a cold night is expected.
What your postcode can and cannot tell you
A postcode lookup can identify a broad location, but it does not automatically provide a reliable frost-free date for your specific garden. MyLittlePlot currently provides general UK-wide growing windows, not precision local frost forecasts.
Plan your little growing space
Choose your growing space and sunlight to get beginner-friendly crops and an estimated 12-month sowing calendar.
Make my free plan →General UK horticultural information only. Always check local weather, frost risk and crop variety. See the RHS guide to vegetables in containers for more detail.