Cold Frames Are Affordable Greenhouse Alternatives
If you’re antsy to start your plants early in the spring, but frosts keep falling into April and May, then it makes sense to get a greenhouse. The problem is that even cheapy greenhouses tend to be costly, and the nice ones run thousands of dollars. If you’re growing your own vegetables to save money, you may not be willing to spend that kind of money right now.
Cold frames are alternative. They’re kind of like plant-sized mini greenhouses.
While you won’t be able to grow trees or big bushes in something like this, a cold frame can be perfect for starting your plants early so they can get a head start when they’re transferred into the garden later.
While it’s certainly possible to make a cold frame from scratch (I’ve heard of people using old storm windows and scrap wood), you can make things easy by picking up a spacious one like this double cold frame from Planet Natural.
It gives you 12 sq. ft. of growing space and comes with four hinged vents and four stakes for anchoring to the ground. It’s 1′ (front) to 1.4′ (middle) high, so it should offer plenty of room for starting plants.
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Steve
This is a great idea, but I’m not sure if I can make the investment in a cold frame (especially in this economy). My kids are pushing me to be more “green,” though, so I’m looking for more eco-friendly ways to take care of my yard, grow plants and vegetables, and so forth. So far, most of the articles I’ve found have either been vague or poorly written, which makes me not trust the content. I found this article earlier (http://www.homeimprovementadvisors.com/10-ways-to-make-your-landscape-greener-this-spring/) and was wondering if other people have thoughts. Also, are there some other good articles on this site or on other trustworthy sites you know of? Thanks!
Lindsay
Steven, you can be eco-friendly and start a garden without spending any money at all! Cold frames are generally for folks who want to extend the season or get a head start in the spring. There are plenty of crops you can plant just in regular old rows in the ground.
Also you can check out books on “lasagna gardening” and “square foot gardening” from the library for some ideas and making things easier. With lasagna gardening, in particular, you don’t have to spend big money on building beds out of wood or anything. Good luck!