Using a storage box as a coldframe?

Leif

It struck me today that I could use an old plastic storage box as a coldframe. It is 26" long by 15" wide by 17" tall, so roomy enough, and made of a translucent plastic, not unlike a polytunnel.

This is the sort of thing:

http://www.euroffice.co.uk/i/148/Really-Useful-Storage-Box-Plastic-Lightweight-Robust-Stackable-84-Litre-W444xD710xH380mm-Clear-Ref-84C

Has anyone done this?

Mollymoonlight

I think its a great idea Leif, I'm think of giving it a go myself

Leif

Oddly enough I popped in to Lidl today, and saw an aluminium and polycarbonate coldframe for £24. So I bought one. I am astonished at the quality, decent double wall polycarbonate, aluminium framing that slots together nicely, sturdy plastic corner mouldings, and it is surprisingly rigid when assembled, I've seen far worse in garden centres for twice as much money.

Davesnave

It's how I got into propagation 30+ years ago, except it was a wooden box and a piece of glass.

cjb02

sounds like a great idea.

realfood

The problem of using a translucent plastic box, is that it is only likely to last for one season as it probably will not be made of UV protected plastic.

safestored4

I have created temporary cold frames to cope with the present exceptional weather by bringing home fruit and vegetable boxes from Tescos, cutting out the bottoms and then stacking them two high and planting salad crops inside with a glass topping. The lettuce are loving it. At the end of the year I'll put the boxes on the compost heap and pick up a few more for next year, Tescos are happy for you to take as many boxes as you like.