How do I make a cold frame or shade cloth covering for my raised beds?
Building a simple cold frame or shade cloth covering is easy: take a length of flexible pipe (1/2″ PVC works well and is cheap at the hardware store) and cut it into equal length pieces so that, bent to fit over the ends of the pins, they form arches of appropriate height. For example, in the picture to the right a 20′ pipe was cut in half to make two 4′ tall supports for a 4′ wide raised bed. The exact height doesn’t matter, as long as there’s room for plants to grow. Attach pipes over pins the length of the bed and cover the structure with your choice of material (there are many options—ask your local garden center for advice). Roll-up or trim away excess material and weigh down the edges with dirt or rocks. Use as needed, e.g. early spring or late fall, then take down and store away for next season.
