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cold frames: a gardener's little helper
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Author: Staff Writer
A cold frame is like a miniature, portable greenhouse.
Cold frames can be very simple. Even a crate covered with
a clear plastic bag (like suits come back from the dry cleaner in) with
air holes poked for ventilation would work. Of course, I'm sure that there
are commercial cold frames or kits available that have lovely bells and
whistles.
But, I've had a lot of luck with a simple box with a slanted
top, with an old 6 over 6 storm window attached with two hearty hinges.
In each case, the cold frame works on the same principle: they provide
heat by harnessing the sun rays, and protect delicate leaves from chilly
winter winds.
Cold frames are useful for a number of reasons:
1) It extends the growing season (at either end).
Very hearty plants like lettuce can be started in flats while there
is still snow on the ground. Fresh homegrown lettuce for Thanksgiving
dinner is possible when using a cold frame.
2) Protection against late or early frosts
3) Helps to harden off seedlings planted indoors.
4) It provides a storage space for bulbs.
5) Provides an extra layer of protection for plants (i.e. could protect
against breakage due to ice and snow.
Cold frame management:
Place your cold frame in a south or southeastern facing location. In extreme
conditions, you might like to place it in a place sheltered from wind
as well.
You need to make sure that it doesn't get too hot! On sunny spring days
(with temperatures in the 40's) you will need to make sure that there
is adequate ventilation to prevent the dangerous build up of heat. Use
a stick to prop the lid open a bit.
Close the lid an hour or so before sun set so that enough heat builds
up to provide protection as the temperature drops.
As the days get warmers, and your seedlings are getting more acclimatized,
you should open the lid wider, and for longer in cooler weather.
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