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Omaha, NE (N41-15-42 )

Getting an early start on this. I have a survey question. How high are everyone's cold frames? I'm not talented in the construction realm and have been pondering the build vs. buy options. Also, if anyone has schematics of cold frames with the wax automatic vent openers, I'd love to see them.

Thanks,

Matt

9/19/2004 2:19:56 PM

Menomonie, WI ([email protected])

Look for an old portable car shelter frame that has out lived its tarp. 12x 24 x 8.

9/19/2004 8:23:52 PM

Wichita, KS

This time of year, Wal-mart often has those fold-up canopies on clearance. I think I saw a few at Target, too. Sale price on them was around $30. Take the tarp off one of those and cover it with plastic... might want to make 4 anchors for the legs by pouring cement into coffee cans. 35 bucks all together, very little effort, plenty of headroom.

9/20/2004 12:54:44 AM

Rexburg, Idaho

Wouldn't waste my money on those fold up canopies. They will crumble in the wind. I know I lost two on a camping trip this year.
If you are looking for something to start pumpkins in in the early spring. Hoophouses work awesome. Have not lost one due to wind in three years. Then take them down when the threat of frost is gone.
If your looking for more of a permanant structure for other veggies and the like. You'll get what you pay for. check out one of the nursery supply places like Charlies Greenhouses, or Mortons,
I did build a "high house" three years ago for my tomatoes. Have not used it as much as I thought I might. I found the instructions to build it on the internet. It has about 7' headroom and is 10x 16.

9/20/2004 8:39:45 AM

Appalachian Mtns.

I'm cheap....6 mil plastic, rebar, PVC pipe for frame, cut slats in the plastic for cooling and seal with Velcro. Works well for me.

9/20/2004 9:56:03 AM