My Cold Frames Journey

Back story…
I haven’t really done any gardening for a few years, but, with the social distancing restrictions, I thought it was time to get back to growing and preserving.

Here in Ontario, our spring time can be wonderful for growing veggies – until early May when that surprise frost hits – and then again in the fall when it comes early ….so, how to extend the growing season? Cold frames, greenhouses, hoop houses, and row covers.

Greenhouses – oh my, there’s a memory! Somewhere in my records is the original story and, if I find it, I will post it in the comments. It is good for a laugh!!

Now … to the coldframes.
I said: Rick, this is what I want. Here is a sample plan that I found online. I want it to use three of those old windows we have kicking around and I want to use the automatic window opener that I bought years ago.
Rick: ok
(Build build build)
Voila. Cold frame #1

Me: oh I love it and I can see how it will really help us with our gardens. I’d love another one.
Rick: ok
(Build build build.)
Voila. Cold frame #2

Rick: I could build you another one, smaller, to fit in that space.
Me: yes please
(Build build build)
Voila. Cold frame #3

Now … well, let’s be honest – I am envisioning the possibilities!

The next project has to be adapted.
I want it to fit around the fence, where I will be growing tomatoes and other vining plants and I would love it if I could start early and harvest late.
But … there is a fence to contend with

• How do I work around the fence and still keep the cold air out and the warm air in?
• How much do I really have to worry about that?
• Could I turn it into a permanent greenhouse, giving me options for even more possibilities?

I’d love some input so I can say, “Rick, this is what I want.”