Glass Cloches

FAQs

• What size garden cloche should I buy?

  The size of the garden cloche you choose should depend on the type and size of the plants you intend to protect. Select a cloche that provides enough space for your plants to grow without touching the sides or top, ensuring proper airflow and light exposure.

  Consider your garden layout and plant spacing when selecting cloche sizes to accommodate the specific needs of your plants.

• What shape of garden cloche should I buy?

  The ideal shape for a garden cloche depends on your plant’s requirements and the specific purpose you have in mind. Bell-shaped cloches are perfect for individual plants, offering a stable environment for seedlings and young plants. 

  Our long cloches on the other hand, work well for rows of plants, providing a continuous protected space for larger areas.

• How do I use garden cloches?

  Position the cloche over the plant or row of plants, making sure there’s enough room for growth without touching the sides or top of the cloche. Regularly monitor the temperature and humidity levels inside the cloche, and adjust the cloche’s ventilation as needed.

• How often should I water plants that are under garden cloches?

  Monitor the moisture level under the cloche and water as needed – typically less often than you would for uncovered plants due to increased moisture retention. 

  Make sure to check the soil for dampness, and remember that different plants have different water requirements. It’s important to strike a balance between maintaining soil moisture and avoiding overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other problems.

  To find out more advice on this, please read our garden watering guide.

• Can cloches be used outside of the growing season?

  Yes, garden cloches can be used outside of the growing season for a variety of purposes.

  Garden cloches are typically used during the growing season to protect crops and plants from frost and other weather conditions. However, they can also be used outside of the growing season to protect plants from cold weather or to help them grow more quickly in the spring.

  In colder climates, garden cloches can be used to protect young plants from frost and freezing temperatures during the autumn and winter months. This can help extend the growing season and allow gardeners to harvest fresh produce well into the winter months.

  Garden cloches can also be used in the spring to help warm up the soil and promote faster plant growth. By trapping heat inside the cloche, gardeners can create a mini greenhouse effect that can help seeds germinate more quickly and plants grow faster.

  Additionally, garden cloches can be used to protect plants from pests and other animals that may try to eat the plants during the offseason. By covering plants with a cloche, gardeners can create a physical barrier that will deter animals from eating their plants.

• How long do garden cloches last?

  The lifespan of garden cloches depends on the material used and how well they’re maintained.

  Glass cloches can last for many years, especially if they are regularly cleaned and carefully stored during periods of non-use.

  Plastic or fabric cloches may have a shorter lifespan, particularly if they are exposed to harsh sunlight or other environmental factors.

• Can I use garden cloches in my greenhouse?

  Yes, garden cloches can be used inside a greenhouse to create additional microclimates for specific plants that require more heat or humidity. By using cloches in your greenhouse, you can cater to the needs of a wider variety of plants, allowing for more diverse and productive gardening.

• Can I use garden cloches on my raised beds?

  Absolutely. Garden cloches can be used effectively on raised beds to provide targeted protection and create the ideal growing environment for your plants. Make sure to choose cloches that fit well within the dimensions of your raised beds.

• Do cloches protect plants from frost?

  Yes, garden cloches provide protection from frost by trapping heat and maintaining a warmer microclimate around your plants. This protective layer can help prevent frost damage to delicate plants and extend the growing season by warding off early or late-season frosts.

• Do cloches protect plants from pests?

  Garden cloches offer a physical barrier that keeps many pests at bay, such as rabbits, deer, slugs, snails and certain insects. While they may not deter all pests, they significantly reduce the risk of damage and infestations and can be combined with other pest control measures for more comprehensive protection.