Small cold frame

Orion_metalhead

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What fungicide do you use?

I am going to build a very similar box this summer for next winter. Will drop it 18" though, since i am putting it next to detached shed far in the yard. I am practically same region as you. Should work equally well for me.
 

cmeg1

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. I am practically same region as you
My advice is to build one always bigger than you think you’ll need it I’ll come in handy..... should keep temps above 27° with dew on the bottoms of the pots probably .....that’s what mine always did when I had it in a colder section of yard.
Use a remote thermometer also and seal box with caulk that applies to wet surfaces.And thick foam on top and definately dirt bottom with gravel.
 

Orion_metalhead

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Do you use any particular r-value insulation? Was considering open bottom with r-7.5 on lid and 1/2 down the sides. Ill probably go 2x8 with 18" under ground.

Got it. Regular Bayer fungicide. Good to know.
 

cmeg1

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Do you use any particular r-value insulation? Was considering open bottom with r-7.5 on lid and 1/2 down the sides. Ill probably go 2x8 with 18" under ground.

Got it. Regular Bayer fungicide. Good to know.
I imagine any of that foam insulation will work wonders just make sure the bottom is open dirt and gravel so earth warmth can radiate up into the box .
I put Oak leaves‘s over top of mine which insulated very well....... just don’t use hay or straw or anything because mice will attack.
Your insulation trick sounds superior really
 

cmeg1

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Checked the trees out today.
Well, it has been a solid 3 months without looking at the trees,so I thought I would open the lid today.Everything was fine as far as root moisture was concerned.I drenched them anyway.3 months and did not have to water.
There was mold this year on the twigs.Probably from the mild Winter and too much insulation from leaves.It is harmless though and I just sprayed with copper and they look fine now.
This is the first year I did not have a freeze in the box.Everything was good and cold though between 33-40 degrees all winter.
Next year I may forgo the leaves,as I like when they take lite freezes.Or I may keep them,we’ll see.
I am testing this method to overwinter pines.They look ok.I will see how they pop into growth.
 

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cmeg1

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Extent of the mold.
Just a bit of mold on the twigs.
I sprayed with copper and they look fine.
Before and after.
 

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cmeg1

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I am building a larger one this year and for zone 7,
All the insulation from leaves is unneccesary.
I believe bud burst is stronger in Spring when the box is allowed to freeze down to about 27 degrees or so like I used to have them.That way a thick layer of frost forms on interior lid and part way down the sides.Cold is good.
That way no mold whatsoever,and no need to water;)
 
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