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Coldframes

Surrey, United Kingdom

I have never used a coldframe before, and wondered if anyone could enlighten me about the rules of when the doors and vent should be open or shut. Sorry if this is a silly question! I am just not sure how I am meant to use it to best advantage. At the moment there are some hebes which I am trying to make bigger and stronger and some sweet williams which are being prepared for next year. I probably sound like an idiot, but any tips would be gratefully received. Thanks.




Answers

 

Of course you don't!

I use my cold frame as a form of protection for plants which need a liitle cosseting before they are planted out. Sweet Williams are a good illustration.

So - if it's sunny, ventilate it completely, or they'll cook! If it's mild-ish, then leave the vents open, and if it's really cold...close it up. Remember to ventilate whenever you can, and also to water the plants (obvious - sorry!

When the evenings start getting colder, I close up the greenhouse and the coldframe in the late afternoon, but I leave a little tiny gap for air when I can, which avoids botrytis.

24 Sep, 2009

 

there realy is nothing I can add, well put,

24 Sep, 2009

 

Thank you both for answering. That's is really helpful Spritz - I was thinking it had to be closed up more, but what you say makes perfect sense!

24 Sep, 2009

 

You're welcome! Now all I have to do is persuade 'himself' to re-erect mine - it's still in pieces, and despite the new greenhouse, my coldframe is indispensible....

24 Sep, 2009

 

You'll have to use some sort of bribe...Its the only way I achieve anything in this house! ;-)

24 Sep, 2009

 

Spritz has the right idea. But I might also add that your frame can be used to 'force' borderline tender plants that may flower unreliably in the UK especially when these can be held back following a cold April/May/June. (You know what I mean).

I use mine for cannas and agapanthus for example so that I can be sure of blooms from mid-May until November.

My earliest bloomers (A. Blessingham Blue) are going under cover now to begin drying off and will hardly have a drop of water before next April.

24 Sep, 2009

 

Hallo, Mw - welcome back!

My coldframe is back in its new position! Hooray!
It will soon be full again.

24 Sep, 2009

 

Oh my goodness - I didn't realise someone had already chosen this name!

24 Sep, 2009

 

Yours is a bit longer, though, isn't it! No two members can have exactly the same name - so don't worry!

25 Sep, 2009

 

Where was your coldframe Spritz and where is it now? Mine gets full sun until about 5pm which is fantastic - everything in there is shooting up.

28 Sep, 2009

How do I say thanks?

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