Cold frame? -Reply

Glass is preferable , but clear plexiglass or plastic would be ok too for a
cold frame.  You don't say what zone you are in.  That would make a
difference in what you are wintering.  Here in zone 5 I put my forcing
bulbs in my cold frame packed in straw.  I water the bulbs in winter
about every 3-4 weeks.  Most things you want to keep on the dry side
but not parched.

The main use of the cold frame,  is getting a jump on Spring.  The cold
frame is most effective used in conjunction with a heating coil to warm
the seeds for germination.  On a sunny Spring day( or even a winter day
in the warmer climates)  the cold frame can get hot .  I have a device that
I purchased from a mail order gardening supply store for $40  that will
automatically open the lid a few inches when the temperature reaches a
certain point.  If you are not home during the day to do this,  it is well
worth the cost.  Otherwise, you can cook your seedlings.
 
--Mary Lou
zone 5

>>> "lindsey@mallorn.com" 11/12/97 02:25am >>>
Tonight I went and bought the necessary lumber to build myself a small
4 x 8 holding bed.  It'll be 24" deep on one end, and 18" on the other.

I'd like to have it double as a coldframe, but since I've never had the
space or tools to build one, I don't have _any_ experience whatsoever.
Can someone explain to me exactly how a coldframe is supposed to
work?

What kind of material should be put across the top?  I thought of
treated plywood, 8 mil black plastic, 8 mil clear plastic, plexiglass,
and glass.  What's preferred?

Also, what needs to be done to assure proper watering?  Do I have to
go out and regularly water any plants that I'm overwintering?  What
about
airflow?  I would guess that the coldframe should be opened on warmer
winter
days...

Like I said, any info is appreciated.  :)

Thanks,

Chris
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