Building an outdoor plant box with a cold frame top is a fantastic way to extend your gardening season and protect plants from harsh weather. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your own.

Materials Needed:

- Untreated cedar or redwood (resistant to rot)

- Screws and hinges

- Clear polycarbonate or greenhouse plastic

- Measuring tape, saw, and drill

Step 1: Construct the Base

Cut the wood to your desired dimensions (e.g., 4’x8’ for a standard raised bed). Assemble the rectangular frame using screws, ensuring corners are square.

Step 2: Add the Cold Frame Top

Create a sloped lid using thinner wood strips. Attach polycarbonate sheets or plastic to the frame, allowing sunlight in while trapping heat. Use hinges to secure the lid to one side of the plant box for easy access.

Step 3: Ventilation

Install a small prop rod or automatic vent opener to regulate temperature. This prevents overheating on sunny days.

Step 4: Positioning

Place the plant box in a sunny spot. Fill it with quality soil and start planting cold-hardy veggies like spinach or kale for winter harvests.

With this DIY project, you’ll enjoy fresh produce year-round while adding functionality to your garden!