Freezing temperatures are not ideal for gardeners, and the unpredictable winter weather can be concerning for those thinking ahead to planting before spring. A cold frame can be a big help, especially as the weather gets a little milder but cold snaps can’t be ruled out.
This cold frame from Christow is perfect for growing in the garden and it’s currently on sale, slashed from £89.99 to £49.99.
With a length of 100cm and width of 65cm, it’s not as big as your classic greenhouse, but still has enough space to grow a range of plants and protect them from the elements. According to the retailer, it’s suitable for salad greens, brassicas, leeks, some larger vegetable shrubs, herbs and starting off flowers as the weather gets milder.
The frame sits low to the ground at 40cm, and would work on patios as well as grassy areas. For those living in a flat who want to try growing some veggies, it could even work for larger balconies.
The cold frame is made of lightweight fir wood, and shoppers can choose between a natural or grey finish. Christow says that the frame has been treated with a non-harmful, water-based preservative that protects it against rot and insect damage, and the untreated natural option allows gardeners to paint it to match their gardens. The material also makes it easy to pick up and move around the garden, so there’s no reason to stress if you are not happy with the placement.
Gardening expert, Jekka McVicar, who has over 35 years of experience in horticulture, previously told express.co.uk: “They are really useful, perhaps more so than greenhouses because they allow the cold, fresh air to circulate. And realistically, it’s not the cold that will kill plants but the rain.
“In my experience, rain kills more plants than anything else. As long as the temperature is above freezing, keeping plants dry but well ventilated is your top priority.”
The frame has a polycarbonate roof panel and sides, which are designed to let in natural light from all angles. The retailer says that the material is better than glass as it’s UV-stabilised, meaning it will last longer against sun damage.
Following the expert’s advice, the sloped roof has drainage holes to keep water from pooling on top, allowing rainwater or melted snow to drain away. At the same time, the lid is fitted with sliding lifts and double hinges that keep it in place for watering and proper ventilation.
Most online reviews from online are saying the cold frame is easy to put together, with one saying they were “very happy with [their] purchase”. They continued: “Easy to follow instructions to assemble frame…No complaints.”
“It’s great”, another said, “easy to assemble and easy to move about.”
Another review called it an “excellent cold frame”. They added: “Just needs to be secured to [the] ground” or have its “corners weighted with bricks, but otherwise perfect home for plants which need a little shelter from the elements.”
It’s worth noting that the frame comes flat-packed and ready to be assembled at home, with ground holes in the base plates allowing gardeners to affix it to the ground for extra stability.
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