Cold Frame Temperatures

Coldframes are distinguished from hothouses or greenhouses in that coldframes do not have a heat source.  When growing in a coldframe it is the most energy efficient, green, low carbon footprint way to have fresh vegetables in winter.  On cold nights the coldframe requires a little extra attention to throw a tarp or insulated blanket over the cold frame to retain the heat that generated during the day.  One way to stay on top of the fluctuating temperatures is to place a remote thermomenter into the coldframe.  Keep the base unit in the house so you can know the temperature in the coldframe.

The below thermometer is perfect for monitoring greenhouse temperatures from within the house.  The remote wireless sensor transmits up to 330 feet away.  Transmitting more than just temperature, the humidity readings will be critical in keeping your coldframe plants watered.  Because coldframes have a warmer ambient temperature and deflect the rain they are at risk of drying out well before the area around the coldframe.  The remote humidity reading for this thermomenter is very important if the coldframe is being used to harden off seedlings. 

Not related to the coldframe but a very nice feature is the radio controlled atomic clock which automatically updates for daylight savings time.