Coldframes
Low-tech Solution for Greenhouse-envy
If you would love to have a greenhouse, but have no room or money, a coldframe is the next best thing.
A cold frame is a non-heated structure for growing plants in a protected environment with a clear glass or plastic window to let in light and solar heat. It is a mini-greenhouse that uses sunlight as a solar energy heat source. Similar to a cold frame, is a hotbed which is simply a coldframe that uses a supplemental heat source. The heat source can be organic like manure or non-organic such as heating cables.
this page still needs lots of work
Reasons for a Coldframe
Use a coldframe to extend the growing season. In the spring, start seedlings and set out cool season vegetables to produce in the spring before it is warm enough out in the garden. In the fall protect plants long after it is too cold to grow in the garden. Cool season vegys like kale, brocolli, and swiss chard can stay edible most of the winter, until a severe cold spell hits
Start seedlings in the coldframe.
Harden off plants begun indoors so they have an in-between holding area to toughen up out of hot, drying sun or frosty mornings. The coldframe protects from frosts, and has higher light levels than plants grown inside, producing husky sturdy plants ready to set into the garden at the proper planting time.
Root cuttings in the coldframe where the humidity is higher than the normal air.
Hold plants to be planted when there is not time to plant or the weather has not settled enough in the spring.
Overwinter semihardy plants.
Some vegetables that can stand cool temperatures will store in the winter, as long as rodents can be kept out.
Overwinter seedling trees and bonsai plants.
Force spring bulbs. Placing pots of planted spring bulbs in a cool coldframe prepares them with the needed environment to prepare for blooming. After two or three month in the cold frame, the pots can be brought into the house every week to row and bloom indoors.
Design a Coldframe
Situate the coldframe so that it will recieve full sun most of the day, preferably south facing. It should be protected from wind, well drained, and conveniently close to a source of water. It is a good idea to have a power souce close to connect a heat source if needed. When the weather turns very cold, it is nice to be able to temporarially put in a source of heat.
A coldframe os basically a frame with a window over the top. The frame can be made from wood, concrete, cement block or brick. Treated wood will last longer if wood is chosen. Insulation board can be put on the inside to keep the frame warmer.
