The use of cold frames and cloches can extend the growing season. They also provide an ideal halfway-house where plants taken from the greenhouse can gradually be acclimatised before being subjected to the vagaries of outdoor life.

For those of us who haven’t the luxury of a greenhouse, a cold frame or cloche can provide some of the benefits. For instance salad crops and tender plants such as tomatoes and peppers can be given extra protection.

Not only do cold frames and cloches protect from the weather and raise the air temperature inside but they can also raise the soil temperature and add to the level of humidity. Conditions within a cold frame or under a cloche are often more constant than the conditions outside where plants may be subjected to buffeting and drying winds. The difference between the temperature during the day and at night is lessened, especially if a covering is placed over the cold frame at night.

Plants growing in pots can be given temporary protection in a cold frame but much benefit can also be achieved by planting directly into the soil under the cold frame. On warm sunny days the cold frame can be opened to allow air to circulate and avoid fungal disease., It may be possible, depending upon the design of the cold frame, to remove the top completely or at least remove the glass in the ‘roof’. This will offer protection from prevailing winds but allow for ventilation. The top can then be replaced during periods of heavy rain to protect the plants from a battering. If necessary the cold frame can then be netted to protect against some pests. Where plants are grown directly in the soil, care needs to be taken to maintain fertility. Alternatively the cold frame can be moved around the garden or plot during subsequent seasons this allowing crop rotation.

Following Available from Harrod Horticultural