Winter protection without a greenhouse

[chrisg]

I have recently move house, partly to get a bigger garden so I can have a greenhouse. That is a project for next year, until then protecting my plants over winter if a mixture of cold frames and filling every available space indoors.

Outside I have one cold frame which houses plants that need a little protection, the first level is mainly agaves and cacti:

The second level is mainly echeverias. I expect this to drop to about -8 this winter which as the plants are totally dry seems to be fine for these (or has been the last 3 years).

Those are the lucky ones outside, there are also a few bowls which go under cloches, these are the echevervia agavoides collection and a cacti collection. I actually keep a lot of my agaves and cacti like this as I find with my minimums keeping them dry is enough.

Having just moved, everything is a bit up in the air at the moment, so there are still quite a few under temporary rain covers until I can get the proper ones up.

The lucky plants get brought inside, I have a three level prop unit which is great for winter, The top is perfect for larger plants, and the two lower levels both have lights (when I manage to find them). I can also add a heat matt if I want depending on what I am growing.

[chrisg]

I also have an overflow area in our bedroom (which is next to be decorated so sadly the plants can not stay here), the wall papering table has come in very useful. I'm not sure that is what my wife mean when she told me to dig it out. These are plants that are either waiting for the lights in the prop unit or there were not space for on windowsills.

[Liz M]

A fascinating glimpse into your collection, thank you so much. You really do need a greenhouse, though, make sure it's really big.

[chrisg]

A fascinating glimpse into your collection, thank you so much. You really do need a greenhouse, though, make sure it's really big.

Thank you. I can't wait to get to grips with the garden and to set aside the space for the greenhouse. This year has highlighted how big the green house is going to have to be. That cold frame is about 70cm by 180cm, I could fill 3 of them without any problems at all, so I am thinking it will probably have to be an 16x8 greenhouse to give me a little room for a few more plants

[rodsmith]

You are certainly well organised, Chris. Your collection appears to be in tip top condition and very well looked after. Your regime is obviously working well. Good luck with the greenhouse next year. Whatever size you think will be large enough, get a bigger one, unless you are very self disciplined and can avoid adding to your collection.

[chrisg]

Thank you. Having had a tiny garden and no greenhouse for years I am very good at being controlled with my buying, but I will make sure I have space for a few more plants don't worry