When does it make sense?

What is the use of a canopy?

With a canopy you protect your Bed against almost all weather influences, similar to a greenhouse. A Cold frame attachment keeps the frost away and creates a warm, humid climate. You can choose flowers and vegetables very early on and don't have to wait for the ice saints to end.

If you live in a rainy area, the tomato harvest often depends more on luck than on horticultural skills. A roof can remedy this and save you the harvest.

What types of roofing are there?

You can build a bed canopy closed or open, depending on whether you want ventilation or not. A closed canopy is suitable for use as a cold frame, for example. It prevents the plants that are underneath from freezing to death. With an open canopy, on the other hand, you can protect tomatoes from excessive moisture.

In addition to the various purposes, bed canopies can also be differentiated according to their construction or durability. A simple construction is only intended for one season and then may no longer be used, while a sustainable one can be used repeatedly or even permanently for several years.

How can I build a canopy myself?

The easiest way to cover a bed (for one season) is probably a Polytunnels.(€ 5.80 at Amazon *) You can get this at the DIY store or garden center together with detailed assembly instructions. Alternatively, you can make a similar construction yourself with thick, transparent film and roof battens. In the case of a more complex roof that should last for several years, you ensure a solid foundation. Here you can also use plexiglass instead of foil.

The essentials in brief:

• Protection against frost and / or rain
• Can be used as a cold frame
• simplest version: polytunnels
• open construction ensures ventilation
• closed construction creates a warm and humid climate
• Always align the rain protection against the weather side