Oh Hail, Sleet, Snow, Wind, and Rain!

The regional expression, "If you don't like the weather in Flagstaff, wait an hour," certainly applies during the last 12 hours in Flagstaff. Last night golfball size hail pummeled every street, car, and stray cat. Today, we experienced wind gusts nearing 45 mph combined with sleet, snow, and rain. This is yet another lesson why gardening can be so unpredictable in Flagstaff. One way to get ahead of the game and get behind the weather is to invest into cold frames. Cold frames extend your growing season on both ends. And cold frames give the added benefit of deflecting damage to your plants from possible hail and snow, especially during unpredictable spring.

We have used cold frames for the past three years. My husband made our cold frames by using salvaged windows, storm door, and wood. He added insulation inside the cold frames to provide further protection from the cold. If you are not inclined to make your own, you can purchase cold frames online.

My coveted herb garden of rosemary, thyme, sage, oregano, cilantro survives every winter by being protected under a cold frame. I have already harvested arugula and spinach thanks to another cold frame! I can't say enough in praise of cold frames.