In the fall avid gardeners can't help but wish the season's end wasn't right around the corner. There is a solution, around for centuries; it is called a cold frame. A cold frame is why gardeners happily grow fall crops like beets, lettuce and kale, confident that the crops won't be damaged by frost. It is why they enjoy fresh veggies through fall and right into winter. It is why they still garden while others are counting days until spring, while pouring over seed catalogs.

What is a cold frame?
A cold frame, quite simply, is a box with a glass lid that acts as a protected environment for your beloved plants. Think of it as a small, affordable greenhouse that can be any size or shape you envision, especially if you do-it-yourself.

How does it work?
The protective environment of a cold frame captures radiant heat courtesy of the glass roof. The sides of the box protect plants from the elements. No frigid winds. The average inside the cold frame is generally twenty degrees warmer than outside. In the fall, open the cold frame during the warmer days and plants thank you for the breath of fresh air.

The magic temperature is 40 degrees. Plants need protection at this point. Mulch is one way to encourage warmth. Draping sheeting over them is another.

Why do you want one?
Other than the above and the reason: "Why wouldn't you,?" a cold frame does other things. You can propagate plants. It is an excellent, safe and natural environment for shrub and tree reproduction. The 'safe house' is just right for young, immature plants, yet gives them an essence of their natural environment. Mulch again adds another little dash of protection.

You can start shrubs and trees from seeds. A cold frame is also the place for new-seedling transplants. It hardens them up, from the very beginning, for real life. Spring bulbs need cooler temperatures in order to bloom inside in the dreary days of winter. A cold frame is the perfect place to give them their start.

No matter what you grow, the plants, of course, still need TLC and frequent watering. Watering has a fringe benefit. To water you must open the top and allow for air circulation. In the fall, when it is still nice, open the cold frame during the warmer periods.

OK, How Do I Make One?
You can buy a cold frame through a mail order house, but they can be expensive. Prices average between $70 and $150. Or, you can buy a book ($4) and build it yourself. It is a box. You can build one using plywood. Some rubber matting on the bottom. Some rubber matting on the bottom. Recycled windows can be hinged-on and used for the glass portion. (Visit your local Habitat For Humanity resale store). You can also use Plexiglas. A lean-to style utilizes the side of a house or garage, leaving only three sides to erect.

You may want to consider some type of flooring for your cold frame. Recycled wood works, keeping unwanted invaders from the outside, outside where they belong.