The All Things Cedar RB72 Raised Bed is a high-quality, versatile growing system designed to offer excellent durability and functionality for your backyard or urban garden. Converting this raised bed into a cold frame is an easy and practical way to extend your growing season and protect plants from early frosts or intense heat. This guide will walk you through the process of transforming the RB72 into an efficient cold frame, including assembly, site preparation, routine upkeep, troubleshooting common issues, and optimization tips for higher yields.
Tools Required
- Measuring tape
- Drill with a screwdriver bit
- Wood screws
- Hinges
- Clear polycarbonate panels or greenhouse plastic
- Silicone sealant
- Power saw (if panel cutting is required)
- Staple gun (if attaching plastic sheeting)
- Level
- Weatherstripping (optional)
Assembly of the Cold Frame
Step 1: Prepare the Raised Bed
Before converting your RB72 raised bed into a cold frame, ensure that the bed is securely assembled. The All Things Cedar RB72 is made from high-quality cedar, which is naturally resistant to decay. If it’s not yet assembled, follow the instructions to put the bed together using the screws and tools provided. Ensure the bed is level on the ground to allow proper drainage and air circulation.
Step 2: Choose the Right Material for the Cold Frame
For the cold frame cover, clear polycarbonate panels or greenhouse plastic are ideal due to their light transmission and insulation properties. These materials will help protect your plants from frost while still allowing them to receive adequate sunlight.
- Polycarbonate panels are durable and provide better insulation, though they can be more expensive.
- Greenhouse plastic is a more affordable option, but it may not last as long as polycarbonate.
Step 3: Install the Frame for the Cold Frame Cover
The cold frame cover is the most crucial part of the conversion. To install it, you will need to attach hinges to one side of the raised bed. This allows you to lift the cover for ventilation and easy access to your plants.
- Measure and cut the polycarbonate or plastic sheeting to fit the dimensions of the raised bed.
- Attach the clear material to the hinged frame using screws or a staple gun, ensuring that the material is taut and securely fixed.
- If using polycarbonate panels, silicone sealant can be used around the edges to prevent heat loss and improve insulation.
Step 4: Attach the Hinges and Handle
To ensure the cold frame is functional, attach sturdy hinges to the back of the raised bed’s frame. These hinges should be strong enough to support the weight of the polycarbonate or plastic cover. Consider adding a simple handle on the front for easy lifting.
Step 5: Weatherproofing (Optional)
If desired, apply weatherstripping along the edges of the cold frame cover to ensure a snug fit. This will help maintain a more consistent temperature inside the cold frame, especially during cold nights. Silicone caulking can also be used around the seams to further prevent heat loss.
Site Preparation and Routine Upkeep
Site Selection
When placing the RB72 raised bed for cold frame use, choose a sunny location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Ensure the site has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which could damage both your raised bed structure and plants.
Seasonal Maintenance
- Spring and Fall Cleaning: At the beginning and end of each growing season, remove any plant debris, check for signs of pest infestation, and clean the cold frame cover to ensure it’s free from dirt or algae buildup.
- Soil Refresh: Refresh the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure to replenish nutrients that may have been depleted during the growing season. This is especially important for growing in a cold frame, as the soil can become compacted over time.
- Monitor Temperature: Check the internal temperature of the cold frame regularly, especially during temperature fluctuations. Open the cover during the day if it becomes too warm inside and close it at night to retain heat.
Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues
Warping of the Cold Frame Cover
If your cold frame cover warps or loses its shape, it could be due to exposure to extreme temperatures. To prevent this, choose high-quality materials like polycarbonate that are designed to withstand temperature changes. Ensure the cover is properly supported by the frame and that it is not too heavy for the hinges.
Poor Drainage
A common issue with raised beds in cold frame setups is poor drainage, especially when the cold frame is sealed tightly. To avoid waterlogging, consider drilling small drainage holes in the bottom of the raised bed. If your location is prone to heavy rains, elevating the bed slightly can also help ensure good drainage.
Pest Entry
To prevent pests from entering the cold frame, ensure that the cover is tightly sealed, particularly around the edges. If you notice any gaps, use weatherstripping or additional silicone to seal them. For extra protection, mesh covers or netting can be added around the perimeter to keep out insects or larger pests.
Customization and Optimization for Higher Yields
Water Efficiency
Incorporating a wicking insert inside the raised bed can help improve water retention, which is crucial in a cold frame setup. Wicking beds draw water from the bottom, keeping the soil consistently moist without overwatering. This is particularly useful for maintaining a stable temperature and moisture level within the cold frame.
Companion Planting Layouts
Optimize plant growth by carefully planning companion plantings. Some plants, like tomatoes and basil, grow well together and can help each other by improving flavor and deterring pests. By grouping compatible plants in the RB72 raised bed, you can increase your yield and create a healthier growing environment.
Temperature Control
Using shade cloths during the hottest months can prevent your cold frame from overheating. A micro-drip irrigation system inside the bed will also allow you to water plants efficiently without disturbing their roots.
Comparison with Similar Raised-Bed Systems
When compared to other raised-bed systems, the All Things Cedar RB72 is particularly advantageous due to its robust construction and long-lasting cedar material. The wide dimensions of the RB72 allow for ample space for crops, making it an ideal choice for gardeners looking to grow a variety of plants. Other materials, such as plastic or metal raised beds, may not offer the same level of durability and insulation that cedar provides. Moreover, cedar is naturally resistant to pests and decay, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
In comparison with similar cold-frame accessories, the RB72’s cedar construction makes it more aesthetically pleasing and better at temperature regulation than many plastic alternatives. The larger surface area of the RB72 also allows for a greater variety of plants, including root crops like carrots and potatoes, which benefit from the deeper soil depth of the raised bed.
Compatibility with Add-ons
The All Things Cedar RB72 is compatible with a variety of add-ons to enhance its functionality and versatility.
- Trellis Frames: A trellis can be easily attached to the side of the raised bed, providing vertical space for climbing plants like peas and beans. This is especially useful in a cold frame, where space is often at a premium.
- Mesh Pest Covers: These can be used to protect plants from insects, providing an extra layer of protection in the cold frame.
- Hoop-house Roofs: A hoop-house roof can be added to create a more permanent structure, enhancing temperature regulation in the cold frame.
- Micro-Drip Irrigation: A drip irrigation system is highly effective for delivering water directly to the plant roots, reducing water waste and ensuring efficient hydration.
- Shade Cloths: During hot summer months, a shade cloth can be placed over the cold frame to prevent overheating.
By incorporating these add-ons, you can further customize the RB72 cold frame to meet your gardening needs and maximize its potential.