Gardening in East Yorkshire
East Yorkshire, including the East Riding, is an open county of fertile lowlands, chalky Wolds and a coastline where wind can strongly influence a garden. It is often drier and brighter than Yorkshire's western side, but the North Sea can hold back spring warmth and buffet exposed plots. Sheltered inland gardens have a useful season, while coastal and Wolds sites benefit from careful wind protection and moisture-conscious planting.
The growing season in East Yorkshire
Based on the North of England region: last spring frost late May to early June, first autumn frost late September to October.
Growing seasons are generally cooler and shorter than farther south, particularly away from sheltered coasts and in the Pennines. Long summer daylight can still favour many crops, but late spring frost and an early autumn chill constrain tender plants. These are broad averages: altitude, exposure, valleys and urban shelter can make neighbouring gardens markedly different.
What grows well in East Yorkshire
Rich lowland soils are well suited to onions, brassicas, peas, beans, roots and productive soft fruit. On the chalk Wolds, improve soil with organic matter and favour herbs, lavender, roses and fruit that enjoy free drainage. Mulches help conserve water in dry spells. At the coast, grow stocky vegetables, use stout supports and select wind-tolerant flowering plants. Start tender crops under cover and move them out only when a sheltered position is reliably warm.
Plan your East Yorkshire garden
Gardening in East Yorkshire: frequently asked questions
When is the last frost in East Yorkshire?
The last spring frost in East Yorkshire is typically around late May to early June, and the first autumn frost around late September to October, based on the North of England region.
When can I start planting outdoors in East Yorkshire?
Hardy crops can be sown from early spring. Wait until after the last frost (around late May to early June) before planting out tender crops such as tomatoes, courgettes and runner beans.
What grows well in East Yorkshire?
Rich lowland soils are well suited to onions, brassicas, peas, beans, roots and productive soft fruit.
Frost and season figures are approximate regional averages; aspect, altitude and shelter shift them locally. Check the current Hull forecast before sowing tender crops. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.