4 ways to KEEP YOUR VEGIES SNUG
Extreme cold can stunt or kill your vegies. Here are some ideas for ways to keep them warm and toasty this winter
1 HOMEMADE CLOCHE
When the temperature drops, a simple cover like this could be perfect for your seedlings. It will keep the cold wind off, and warm the soil around their sensitive roots. Just take a 2L drink bottle, remove the label and cut it in half. Use both halves; put a few holes in the bottom half to allow excess heat and humidity to escape.
2 FLOATING ROW COVER
Protect entire rows from cold and light frost with horticultural fleece or nursery grade plastic. Plastic will require a support such as a wire hoop frame, but the fleece – fabric made from polypropylene – is light and can rest directly on plants. If laid on a frame, it will create a gap of warm air above plants. Plastic or fleece, light penetration is adequate for plants to continue growing.
3 POLYTUNNEL
If you garden in a colder area, a little backyard polytunnel could be your next best friend. Typically made of steel and covered in polythene, these structures warm the air, increase humidity, create a barrier from drying winds and reduce pest problems.
All that creates an ideal microclimate for many plants and potentially extends the season for cold-sensitive crops, such as tomatoes. The vents can be opened to manage temperature, humidity and airflow.
4 MINI GREENHOUSE
Tiny mobile greenhouses are ideal to use in the cold months for germinating seed and growing seedlings on to a good size ready for planting. Also known as a ‘mini hothouse’, these handy little plant incubators can be moved around to follow the sun during the day and brought inside to a warm room at night. Most will have adjustable airflow vents on the top. You can find them at garden centres.