Overwintering Plants in Cold Frames: A Beginner’s Guide
Introduction
Cold frames are a great way to extend the growing season and protect your plants from the cold. They are simple to build and can be used to overwinter a variety of plants, including tender perennials, cool-season vegetables, and even some bulbs.
What is a Cold Frame?
A cold frame is a structure that is used to protect plants from the cold. It is typically made of wood or metal and has a clear or glazed top. Cold frames trap heat from the sun, which helps to keep the soil warm and the plants protected from the elements.
Benefits of Overwintering Plants in Cold Frames
There are many benefits to overwintering plants in cold frames. These benefits include:
- Extending the growing season: Cold frames can help you to get a jump start on the spring gardening season or extend the growing season into the fall.
- Protecting plants from the cold: Cold frames provide protection from frost, snow, and wind. This can help to prevent your plants from being damaged or killed by the cold.
- Hardening off plants: Cold frames can be used to gradually expose plants to colder temperatures before transplanting them outdoors. This helps to harden off the plants and make them more resistant to the cold.
Types of Plants that Can Be Overwintered in Cold Frames
A variety of plants can be overwintered in cold frames, including:
- Tender perennials: Tender perennials are plants that are not hardy in your climate and would normally be killed by the cold. Examples of tender perennials include geraniums, begonias, and lantana.
- Cool-season vegetables: Cool-season vegetables are plants that grow best in cool weather. Examples of cool-season vegetables include lettuce, spinach, radishes, and broccoli.
- Bulbs: Some bulbs, such as tulips and daffodils, can also be overwintered in cold frames.
How to Overwinter Plants in Cold Frames
Overwintering plants in cold frames is a relatively simple process. Here are the steps involved:
- Prepare your cold frame: Before you can overwinter plants in a cold frame, you need to prepare it. This includes cleaning the cold frame, repairing any damage, and adding a layer of mulch or straw to the bottom.
- Choose the right plants: Not all plants are suitable for overwintering in cold frames. Choose plants that are hardy in your climate or that can be hardened off before being placed in the cold frame.
- Plant your plants: Once you have chosen your plants, it is time to plant them in the cold frame. Space the plants according to the directions on the plant tags.
- Water your plants: Water the plants thoroughly after planting them. Do not overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
- Monitor your plants: Once your plants are in the cold frame, you need to monitor them regularly. Check the plants for pests, diseases, and signs of stress. Water the plants as needed and adjust the ventilation as necessary.
Tips for Overwintering Plants in Cold Frames
Here are a few tips for overwintering plants in cold frames:
- Ventilation is important: Cold frames need to be ventilated to prevent the plants from overheating or becoming too humid. Open the vents on the cold frame on warm days.
- Protect your plants from pests and diseases: Pests and diseases can be a problem in cold frames. Inspect your plants regularly and treat any problems promptly.
- Be patient: Overwintering plants in cold frames takes time and patience. Don’t expect your plants to thrive overnight. Just keep monitoring them and providing them with the care they need, and they will eventually reward you with beautiful blooms and bountiful harvests.
