The general climate of an area is determined by geographical factors such as:

• Latitude
  Affects temperature. In the Northern hemisphere, gardens in the south are warmer than those in the north.
• Altitude
  Affects temperature, rainfall and wind speeds. As the altitude increases, the temperature decreases and rain and wind levels increase.
• Proximity to the Sea
  Affects rainfall and temperature. Coastal areas tend to be milder during the winter months and cooler in the summer than other parts of the country. The warm, moist air from the sea also results in an increase of rain, mist or fog.
• Proximity to a Town
  Affects temperature, rainfall, humidity and snow. Towns build up their own 'dome' of warm air which can affect the climate greatly. Urban areas tend to be warmer, less humid, less prone to frosts and receive fewer days of snow than rural areas. They also receive less sunshine with more cloud, fog and rain.

The UK is also influenced by the rain and warm air currents that are created by the seas that surround it. In particular, the Gulf Stream keeps certain parts of the west of Britain and Ireland several degrees warmer than the rest of the country. In fact, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly are able to grow plants associated with much warmer climates, such as palm trees. It is estimated that the Gulf Stream keeps the whole of Britain at least five degrees warmer than it would otherwise be.