With a cold frame you can garden much more flexibly. Because the "mini greenhouse" gives you the opportunity to prefer young plants and to cultivate sensitive exotic plants successfully. In our article you will learn what you should look out for when buying a cold frame and which models are specifically recommended.
Cultures can be brought forward in a cold frame
Our recommendations
our recommendation
Gartenfreude foil greenhouse cold frame 185 x 95 x 95 cm (LxWxH)
59.99 EUR To the product| kind | double cold frame |
|---|---|
| frame material | Robust metal frame |
| plate material | PE film |
| size | 185x95x95cm |
| Assembly | Plug-in system/throw |
| handling | very good |
The cold frame is characterized by its considerable size and surprisingly low weight. This is due to the successful combination of the metal frame and the PE film, which lets plenty of sunlight through to the plants. Most Amazon reviewers are very positive about the mini greenhouse. Thanks to the plug-in system, it should be quick and easy to set up. According to the manufacturer, the roofs of the cold frame can be opened and closed without any problems - for optimal ventilation of the greenhouse.
our recommendation
GrünerGarten raised bed GRÖN - premium quality, organic Douglas fir logs, very robust, very easy assembly without tools, completely non-toxic (cold frame attachment)
139.99 EUR To the product| kind | single cold frame |
|---|---|
| frame material | douglas fir |
| plate material | plexiglass |
| size | 110x80x25cm |
| Assembly | screwing |
| handling | Well |
With the special single cold frame from Gartenpirat, the elegant look is the first thing that impresses, because the frame of the small greenhouse is made of real Douglas fir wood and is therefore wonderfully natural. However, this plus point has a disadvantage: the cold frame requires more maintenance. It is best to paint the wood with a suitable wood stain so that it does not turn gray and unsightly over time. The kit, in which the side elements and window frames are already pre-assembled, is practical. Screwing together the individual parts is usually not a problem for the experienced do-it-yourselfer.
our recommendation
Gartenfreude foil greenhouse cold frame 120 x 60 x 60 cm (Lx W x H)
41.99 EUR To the product| kind | foil greenhouse |
|---|---|
| frame material | metal |
| plate material | PE film |
| size | 120x60x60cm |
| Assembly | Plug-in system/throw |
| handling | Well |
The Gartenfreude cold frame is the simplest and cheapest model in our comparison. It consists of a light and robust metal frame combined with a tear-resistant PE film that you simply throw over the frame. Several reviewers on Amazon recommend securing the sheeting to the ground with tent pegs or similar to keep the mini greenhouse from being blown over in strong winds. The handling seems to be good, the price-performance ratio is excellent. With its light weight, low cost and particularly easy handling, this relatively large poly greenhouse is ideal for beginners.
Purchase Criteria
kind
single cold frame: A so-called single cold frame always has only one roof, which slopes slightly towards the front.
double cold frame: A double cold frame has two slightly sloping roofs (one sloping to the left, the other to the right, classic house look).
frame material
wood: A wooden frame is particularly robust and also the better choice in terms of looks, as it blends harmoniously into the garden. However, a frame made of wood weighs heavier - in the truest sense.
aluminum: The light metal aluminum is clearly lighter than wood. In addition, an aluminum frame can generally be built using a very simple plug-in system. Only the not quite as pronounced stability and the tendentially functional appearance speak against an aluminum frame.
plate material
Glass: Cold frames with glass plates fascinate with their elegant appearance and - if the glass is not structured - also with their pleasant ease of care. It is generally sufficient to clean the glass plates with a soft sponge and soapy water - but be careful, otherwise the glass threatens to break. This brings us to the biggest disadvantage of this plate material: If it breaks, which is easily possible, there is a risk of injury from the shards. Moreover, glass plates are often very heavy.
polycarbonate: As with "large" greenhouses, polycarbonate is also the most popular material for the small cold frames. This is due to the convincing features of the special plastic: it is lightweight, particularly weather-resistant and unbreakable. In addition, polycarbonate has high light transmission and insulating properties - properties that favor plant growth. To ensure that the panels do not turn yellow, they must be cleaned thoroughly on a regular basis.
plexiglass: The technical term for Plexiglas is polymethyl methacrylate. This plastic basically looks like polycarbonate, but has some different characteristics than its "brother". Plexiglas is similarly lightweight, translucent, and insulating. In addition, the material is insensitive to scratches and does not yellow even after years of use. Compared to polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate is a bit cheaper, but also a bit more weather-prone.
foil greenhouse: A mini greenhouse with foil is particularly light and very mobile and inexpensive. But: The film usually does not have a very long service life. However, it can often be easily and inexpensively replaced if it is damaged. If you are looking for a particularly inexpensive solution for the effective cultivation of young plants, you will make an excellent choice with a plastic greenhouse. Visually, of course, it cannot compete with glass, Plexiglas or polycarbonate cold frames.
size
If you already have experience with (mini) greenhouses or with growing plants, you can certainly estimate how much space you need in your new cold frame to accommodate all the plants. For beginners, we recommend a medium-sized and inexpensive model. Tip: A cold frame with several levels does not take up more floor space, but it can accommodate significantly more pots. The usable area of cold frames is generally between 0.5 and 1.25 square meters.
Assembly
Most cold frames that you can buy in stores can be assembled quickly and easily - even without previous knowledge or manual talent. If you lack both, you should specifically use a kit for a mini greenhouse, which you can set up quickly and easily using the plug-in system. A little tip: a high and narrow cold frame tilts easily. To prevent this, you should attach it to a wall to be on the safe side.
handling
The cold frame should be as light as possible and easy to assemble and transport. In addition, quick and easy cleaning as well as pleasant handling to create ideal growth conditions for the young plants in the mini greenhouse are advantageous. Above all, this handling means that you can open the roof window of the cold frame to ensure optimal air circulation in the box. It is ideal if the opening angle of the roof can be continuously adjusted.
youtubefrequently asked Questions
What is a cold frame for?
A cold frame is a kind of mini greenhouse in which you can grow young plants and vegetables on the one hand and sensitive exotic plants on the other. Some also use a cold frame as a turtle enclosure.
How is a cold frame constructed?
Cold frames each consist of a frame and several transparent panels. They typically have one or two slightly sloping roofs. The trade has versions available in different sizes. There are also differences in the materials used for frames and panels.
Where is the best place to buy a cold frame?
You will usually find what you are looking for in a well-stocked hardware store or garden center, both offline and online. As is so often the case, the easiest way is via Amazon, where you can choose from numerous cold frames. With the popular mail order company, you can enjoy an uncomplicated ordering and return procedure. With the right materials, you can build your cold frame yourself instead.
How much does a cold frame cost?
Cold frames are already available from around 28 euros. The spectrum extends upwards into the low three-digit range. Basically it depends on the manufacturer, the size and of course the materials and the processing quality, how much a cold frame costs exactly.
Where should I set up my cold frame?
Choose a place that is as sunny and sheltered from the wind as possible for your cold frame. Orient the mini greenhouse to the south. In this way you can even grow hardy crops in late winter. During the summer months we recommend that you put shading foil on the cold frame in the midday hours so that it does not overheat and your plants are not damaged.