Hello Fellow Gardener’s

This time of year, winter just seems to be soooo darn long! It just seems like it will never end! The seed catalogs have been paged through (several times), plants have been ordered, and my long list of garden books to read during the winter have all been read. What is there to do now? Well, I have a suggestion! Why not try building a cold frame!?

Why Would I Want a Cold Frame?

Cold frames are making a big comeback because they extend your Spring and Winter growing seasons!

You can plant your perennial seeds in the fall in a cold frame, and they will mature earlier and healthier than those grown in the house! Annuals do especially well and so do root vegetables and herbs!

One of the best reasons is that cold frames are not very expensive when you build them yourself, and almost anyone can build one! You can even recycle materials such as an old window, shower doors, and more!

I want a Cold Frame…Now What!

Step 1: Choose a location!

The first thing you should think about is where you are going to place your cold frame.

It should be facing south for maximum sun exposure but still close enough to your house for convenience!

It is preferable if the back of the cold frame is placed right up against a structure such as your house or garage. This will help guard it against the elements such as wind and cold. You have to keep those veggies nice and toasty!

Step 2: Choose the materials!

If you want your cold frame to last a while try building it out of cedar or cypress, these woods naturally repel water. Make sure to use an organic wood, one that is not treated with pesticides! Also use galvanized or brass nails to avoid rusting.

Drainage is very important! Make sure to place a thick layer of gravel at the bottom of your cold frame. Don’t like gravel? Another solution is to place your cold frame on top of a sloped mound of soil. Simply press the cold frame downwards to ensure a tight seal, and voila! See illustration below…

Step 3: Choose the size!

Preferably your cold frame should not exceed 3 to 4 feet from front to back, this allows easy access to your vegetables and plants!

The length can be any size you choose! Just remember you should place it against a building, so consider how much space you have to work with.

Now that you have the basics, stay tuned for more information on cold frames including where to get free plans!

Check out this great how-to guide we found on the Virginia Tech website titled Cold Frames and Hot Beds!

Also check out this cute homemade video from garden fork tv (shot in New England!), that shows a cold frame being constructed from start to finish! It’s full of good tips!

Happy Gardening,

Marie Suzanne

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