Cold frames are particularly useful in early spring for getting plants of to an early start and protecting them from inclement weather before planting out
TIMBER GROZONE
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This growing unit is made from FSC-certified wood with UV stabilised polycarbonate panels. It has two front doors and a hinged lid for ease of access. Grey in colour but the timber can be painted a different colour of non-toxic paint if required. Dimensions: H100xW57xD41cm (H39xW22½xD16in). Self-assembly required.
GARDENING NATURALLY
www.gardening-naturally.com
TEL: 01285 760505
PRODUCT CODE: GROZ6
PRICE: £99.99
KG VERDICT
With pre-drilled holes, this self-assembly unit is very easy to put together. It is very light so can be moved to different places in your yard or garden as you wish. With three tiers it offers ample space for trays of germinating seeds trays and for protecting seedlings and young plants. The inside is easily accessible with two front doors and hinged lid, the latter useful for hardening off young plants. Compact yet capacious, this very practical unit will not disappoint!
TOP PICK
MODULAR COLD FRAME
Glazed on all sides and top with heat retentive polycarbonate, this cold frame has a sturdy aluminium frame and a large, hinged lid. Secure anchorage is achieved with legs at each corner for sinking into soil (models without legs also available). Dimensions: L117 x W61 x H45 at the back (L46 x W24 x H18 at the back).
TWO WESTS & ELLIOTT
www.twowests.co.uk
TEL: 01246 451077
PRODUCT CODE: CFM
PRICE GUIDE: £133.99
KG VERDICT
As an alternative to wooden frames, this one has an aluminium one so rot-proof and long lasting. It is light so easy to move about the garden. The hinged lid, with locking mechanisms either side, gives instant access to a spacious interior. This model came with legs so it can be pushed down into soil for a secure footing. It does take a little while to put it together with its nuts and bolts but once up will provide a sturdy and long-lasting cold frame.
TOP PICK
RAISED WOODEN COLD FRAME
This is made from strong and durable fir wood with polycarbonate panels but comes with legs so, along with the hinged lids offers ease of access and no bending necessary. It measures L90 x W51 x H104cm (L36xW20xH41). The wood has not been pre-treated. Self-assembly required.
DOBIES
www.dobies.co.uk
TEL: 0333 240 5933
PRODUCT CODE: G2164
PRICE: FROM £69.99
KG VERDICT
If bending down is an issue, or you just prefer the convenience of a raised cold frame, then this offers an excellent option. Pre-drilled holes make the self-assembly of this unit relatively easy to put together. The hinged lid gives plenty of access to the inside area. And the framed area at the base of the unit is useful for storage.
TOP PICK
LARGE TIMBER COLD FRAME
Made from FSC pressure treated timber from sustainable sources, this cold frame has two independently opening lids with acrylic glazing. It comes with a 15-year anti-rot guarantee. Self-assembly. Dimensions: L109 x W63 × H38cm (L25¾ x W43 x H15in)
FOREST GARDEN
www.forestgarden.co.uk
TEL: Go online for stockists
PRODUCT CODE: OLCFDHD
PRICE: RRP £137.49
KG VERDICT
With its double lid feature, this cold frame makes accessing the interior very practical and easy to manage. Made from timber that comes with a substantial anti-rot guarantee, this is one that will stand you in good stead for a long time. Some pre-drilling of screw holes is required but once up this cold frame has an attractive rustic look to bring to your backyard or garden.
