The Permacultivator - Journal of Cool Climate Permaculture
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The Permacultivator - Journal of Cool Climate Permaculture |
Gardeners in cool areas can extend their growing season by using cold frames, cloches or green houses, sometimes called glass houses. This method is particularly good for raising seedlings ready to plant out when frosts have finished.
Those frost resistant vegetables suitable for open ground can benefit from a good thick mulching, preferably a dark mulch which keeps the earth below warmer in winter.
Dry stone walls and hedgerows offer protection from biting winter winds as well as trellis, trees etc. which are good windbreaks. However care must be taken not to shade vegetables from the available sun.
A glass frame is an excellent idea for hardening off plants ready for the open ground. Many plants such as strawberries can be left in the frame, just open the lid to the sun during the day or when required.
Times for growing vary, not just for the seasons stated on the packet of seeds but according to the climatic conditions which of course change from year to year, but also your own garden layout etc. Experiment. Keep a diary. That way you can build a log of what is best in your particular garden.
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
J23 Spring 98