Image by Chiot’s Run via Flickr

The gardening season does not have to come to an end. Not with a cold frame available. You can garden year-round thanks to this handy device. Better yet, you can easily build your own cold frame inexpensively saving yourself a bundle.

A cold frame is simply a frame around your plants which shelters them from the cold. Cold frames typically consist of four walls a removable top or top that opens allowing you to access the plants. Usually the top is made of a clear material to allow sunlight to penetrate.

The frame itself can be constructed from any sturdy material that provides support. Plywood, scrap wood or concrete blocks all work well. An old window can make a perfect top. If you don’t have an old window to recycle, clear plastic Plexiglas can work well as can plastic sheeting that is secured to the frame.

With regard to size considerations the rule of thumb seems to be to build a cold frame that is at least 2 feet by 4 feet to make it worthwhile. But it is important to not make it larger than 3 feet by 6 feet, else run the risk of not being able to easily access all the plants inside the frame.

It is best to build your cold frame with a south facing exposure to get the most sunlight possible.  The location should offer good drainage and be somewhat sheltered from the wind. The cold frame can be constructed to be a permanent garden feature or have the ability to be easily disassembled so as not to take up precious garden space when not in use.

Maintaining the temperature of your cold frame is a very important aspect. For summer plants, the temperature should stay below 75 degrees F. For spring and fall season plants, the temperature should be kept below 60 degrees. To quickly cool down a cold frame, simply lift the lid.

When the temperatures outdoors get above 40 degrees, prop open the lid 6 inches. When the temps outside rise above 50 degrees F, you can completely remove the lid during the day. Be sure to replace the lid in the late afternoon, before the sun goes down to trap some heat inside to get through the cool nights.

If it gets really cold out, layer some old blankets over the top of your cold frame for quick insulation that will heat the frame and protect your plants.

Jerry J. Jansen

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