Cold Frame...

Saint Fiacre's picture
Submitted by Saint Fiacre on Tue, 02/26/2008 - 20:01
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I plan to build some cold frames in an attempt to extend the growing season a bit.What can I realistically in the difference between air temps and temps inside  a wood cold frame with a glass top?

Would insulation on the inside possibly increase the warmth a worthwhile amount?

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Our area has a building code

Submitted by randy cobb on Sun, 03/30/2008 - 22:24.
Our area has a building code for plumbing that requires all pipes to be at least 18" below ground level to be sure that freezing temperatures will never damage the pipes.  A cold frame is certainly not the same as plumbing, but the principle involved is valid.  If the inside of the cold frame is recessed below ground level, the warmer earth temperatures below will give you an edge over a coldframe that is built at ground level.  I bought a small one once.  It was a 3' x 4' coldframe and I recessed it into the ground about 6 or 8 inches.  I started an awful lot of plants in that little thing and I was very happy with it.  I scavenged some old windows from a remodel project, but I never got around to building a larger coldframe.
WildIris's picture

 also if you build it up

Submitted by WildIris on Thu, 03/27/2008 - 11:01.

 also if you build it up against a building that is heated...this will add some degrees to it...I think the insulation would also help..

It's me vegemm "So then neither is he that plants any thing, neither he that waters; but God that gives the increase." 1 Corinthians 3:7 

 

Lavender2's picture

 Hi SF, Generally the

Submitted by Lavender2 on Tue, 02/26/2008 - 20:15.

 Hi SF,

Generally the temperature inside a cold frame is 5-10 degrees above the outside air temp.  Covering with blankets, etc. can get the temp up a little, but only by a couple degrees.  Here's a link to a great article...

Cold frames

~ Connie    ~ Zone 5    ~ MN