Introduction: How to Build a Cold Frame
Even during the winter one can grow greens and herbs just by using a cold frame.
Building a cold frame is easy!
The following is a brief explanation on how to build a cold frame and on how to prepare the soil for your winter garden.
Step 1: Initial Considerations
First thing to consider before building your cold frame is the location. Ideally it should be south facing to collect the warmth of the sun. Also, consider the wind, (windbreaks), and water,(drainage), elements.
Step 2: Building Your Cold Frame
1. Get yourself an old window frame with glass. Preferably 3-4 feet wide, so you can easily reach the back.
2. Construct a wooden frame that fits your window frame. Make the back of the frame higher than the front. Remember to use non-decomposing wood.
3. Attach the window frame to the wooden frame using heavy duty hinges.
Step 3: How to Prepare the Soil
Cold frames are hollow at the bottom and are placed on prepared soil.
1. Use a shovel to dig out small squares of the top soil. The area you dig will eventually be the same as the size of the cold frame.
2. Sift squares through a wire screen to filter out usable soil. Discard grass and rocks.
3. Then use a pitchfork to aerate the sub-soil.
4. Mix compost with the sub-soil.
5. Put the freshly filtered top soil back on the sub-soil.
6. Mix compost with the top soil.
7. Finally place your cold frame on top.
Step 4: Other Considerations
Warm weather: on a warm day you will need to prop open your cold frame's window for ventilation.
Step 5: Start Planting Your Garden
Now you have built an environment fit for your winter garden.