What is a cold frame? A cold frame is a structure you can
build in your garden to extend the growing season in the cold weather. It is
usually built from wood or blocks. It should slope downward slightly so that
water can drain off, and so that the sun can have the most exposure. Face the
frame to the south so that the winter sun can have the greatest effect. Place
glass or plastic on top to act as a greenhouse effect and gather the heat from
the sun during the day.
What can you grow in a cold frame? There are many vegetables
you can grow in a cold frame, including lettuce and salad mixes that are cold
hardy and some root crops. The cold frame could also be used to harden off
seedlings that were started indoors and need to be planted outdoors. By using a
cold frame to harden them off, you will prevent possible damage and setbacks
from stress of the new harsh environment to the seedlings. Using a cold frame
might make it possible for you to grow and harvest hardy greens all winter
long, depending on how harsh winter gets in the area you live.
There are many possibilities to using a cold frame, and they
will last many years. To me building a cold frame to have a longer growing
season is worth it to me. Here is a website with some information on how to
build a cold frame.
Happy Gardening!
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