Thursday, December 24, 2009

Cold Frames



A cold frame is simply a mini-greenhouse that sits on the ground used to help extend the growing season and get new plants started. The frame and lid protect the plants from the cold weather. Commonly, a cold frame is rectangular or square shaped. However, there are many different ways to build a cold frame. Ideally, the cold frame should face toward the south for the most sunlight during the day. The top is made out of translucent material like plastic or glass to allow sun to shine on the plants.

This year, I started experimenting with cold frames, mainly to keep a fresh supply of lettuce and spinach. So far, I have had a great deal of success so I am delighted with the results. In fact, we are almost into January; and I am still getting a good yield of lettuce and spinach. At night, I have been covering the cold frames with blankets, then applying a tarp over that for extra protection from the cold temperatures. The above image is a picture of my cold frames.

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