About MorningCrate

Updated May 22, 2026

MorningCrate covers a narrow topic: season extension for food gardens in northern Canadian climates. Specifically, the use of cold frames, low tunnels, and row covers in regions where the frost-free growing period is short and where weather in spring and fall is variable enough to require careful management.

What this site covers

The articles on this site focus on three connected subjects:

• Cold frame construction and performance — materials, heat retention, and the thermal behavior of enclosed growing structures
• Ventilation and temperature management — managing the temperature swings that occur between cold nights and warm spring days
• Crop selection — which vegetables are genuinely suited to cold-frame production in short northern seasons

The geographic focus is Canada, with particular relevance to British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba gardeners in zones 2–4. Some information applies more broadly to northern climates, but specific timing and variety recommendations reflect Canadian conditions.

Approach to content

The articles on this site try to be specific rather than general. Lists of "cold-hardy vegetables" that include crops suitable for zone 6 are not useful to someone gardening above the 55th parallel. Temperature numbers, timing windows, and variety notes are given where they are verifiable and relevant to northern conditions.

Where exact numbers are not available or vary by location, the articles say so rather than substituting approximate figures or broad claims. External links go to Agriculture Canada, university extension services, and other sources that can be verified independently.

Contact

Questions, corrections, or notes on topics not yet covered can be submitted using the contact form on the home page. Responses are not guaranteed but all messages are read.

MorningCrate is based in British Columbia, Canada.