Tips for growing plants in cold weather

[Scarletpyxi]

There are now many known ways to effectively extend the growing season into the depths of winter, even in the farthest reaches of Maine! Some of these methods are more costly than others; but you get what you pay for, just like anything else in life.

1.) Construct cold frames. You can use old windows or glass doors with wooden door frames for your key materials if you have access to these items. You can also purchase the building supplies for more of an investment.

2.) Purchase a poly tunnel. These are great, very expensive but also very useful. If you want a protected outdoor space that stays warm year round this would be a great recommendation to meet your needs.

3.) Buy (or build) a hoop house. These are often smaller (and somewhat less expensive) than poly tunnels, but they will effectively serve the same purpose. If you are just a small scale gardener or a farmer with very few crops, this would be an ideal option.

Personally, I plan on using cold frames in a hoop-house and then rented space in a poly tunnel this winter season. I actually live in Maine, where these are all fairly common growing mediums nowadays. But I still know many gardeners across the country that have never heard of poly tunnels or hoop houses, so I thought it would be good information to share.