To make a garden cloche out of chicken wire, cut the wire to the desired length, shape it into a dome, secure the edges with wire ties or clips, and cover the top with clear plastic or frost cloth if needed for additional protection.
A garden cloche serves as a protective barrier for plants, shielding them from harsh weather and pests and even promoting growth by trapping heat and moisture. Chicken wire, with its flexibility and durability, is an excellent material for constructing a DIY cloche.
- Materials Needed:
- Chicken wire (galvanized for rust resistance)
- Wire cutters
- Wire ties or clips
- Clear plastic or frost cloth (optional)
- Steps:
- Measure and Cut: Determine the size of the cloche based on the plants you’re protecting. Cut a piece of chicken wire to the appropriate length, accounting for the height and width needed.
- Shape the Dome: Carefully shape the cut wire into a dome or cylindrical structure. The flexibility of chicken wire allows you to form a rounded shape easily, but ensure the edges are even.
- Secure the Edges: Use wire ties or clips to secure the edges where the wire meets, reinforcing the structure and preventing it from unraveling.
- Optional Covering: If you’re looking to protect the plants from frost or to create a mini-greenhouse effect, cover the top with a piece of clear plastic or frost cloth. Secure this with additional wire ties.
- Usage: Place the cloche over your plants, pressing the edges slightly into the soil to anchor it. The cloche will protect young plants from pests and cold snaps while allowing light and rain to pass through.
| Parameter | Typical Range | Impact on Plant Protection |
|---|---|---|
| Wire Gauge (Thickness) | 19-22 gauge | Thicker gauge provides more durability and structure stability. |
| Height of Cloche | 12-24 inches | Taller cloches accommodate larger plants and allow for growth. |
| Diameter of Cloche | 12-18 inches | A wider cloche covers more area, suitable for spreading plants. |
| Durability (Lifespan) | 3-5 years (galvanized wire) | Galvanized wire resists rust, extending the cloche’s usable life. |
| Protection Coverage (Temperature) | Protects plants in 28-32°F range | A cloche with an optional cover can protect plants from light frost. |
| Labor Time | 15-30 minutes per cloche | Quick to assemble, making it practical for multiple plant protection. |
Materials and Tools Required
Before you begin making your garden cloche, you’ll need to gather some essential materials and tools. Below is a list of what you’ll need:
| Materials | Tools |
|---|---|
| Chicken wire (1-2 rolls) | Wire cutters |
| U-shaped stakes (optional) | Gloves |
| Small zip ties or wire | Tape measure |
| Metal clips or hooks (optional) | Pliers |
| Garden fabric (for extra protection) | Protective goggles |
- Chicken Wire: The primary material for this cloche, chicken wire is lightweight, flexible, and easy to shape. It’s typically sold in rolls and can be cut to the desired size.
- U-Shaped Stakes (Optional): These can be used to secure the cloche to the ground, especially in windy areas.
- Small Zip Ties or Wire: These are used to connect the ends of the chicken wire securely.
- Metal Clips or Hooks (Optional): These can provide extra stability to your cloche structure, making it more durable.
- Garden Fabric (Optional): This can be added to provide an extra layer of protection, particularly against frost or intense sunlight.
- Wire Cutters: Essential for cutting the chicken wire to the desired size.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from cuts and scratches while handling the wire.
- Tape Measure: Useful for ensuring that your cloche is the right size for your plants.
- Pliers: Helpful for bending and shaping the wire.
- Protective Goggles: Safety first—wear these to protect your eyes from stray wire ends.
4 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Measure and Cut the Chicken Wire
Start by measuring the area you want to protect with the cloche. Using your tape measure, determine the length and width of the chicken wire you’ll need. Remember to account for the height of your plants—your cloche should be tall enough to allow growth.
| Plant Type | Height (inches) | Length x Width (inches) |
| Small Herbs | 6-10 | 18 x 18 |
| Vegetables (e.g., Lettuce) | 12-18 | 24 x 24 |
| Taller Plants (e.g., Tomatoes) | 24-36 | 36 x 36 |
Once you’ve taken your measurements, unroll the chicken wire on a flat surface and cut it to the required size using wire cutters. Be sure to cut the wire carefully, and wear gloves to protect your hands.
- Shape the Wire into a Dome
After cutting the wire to the correct dimensions, the next step is to shape it into a dome. Begin by bending the wire gently into a semi-circular shape. The chicken wire is flexible, so this should be relatively easy, but take your time to avoid kinks or sharp bends that could weaken the structure.
Once you’ve formed the basic dome shape, connect the ends of the wire using small zip ties or pieces of wire. Twist the ties tightly to ensure that the structure holds its shape.
- Secure the Base
To ensure your cloche stays in place, especially in windy conditions, you may want to secure the base using U-shaped stakes. These stakes can be pushed into the ground through the bottom edge of the wire to anchor it securely.
If you’re using the cloche in a raised garden bed or a planter, you can use metal clips or hooks to fasten the base to the sides of the container. This added stability will keep your cloche from shifting or tipping over.
- Add Extra Protection (Optional)
If you live in an area with particularly harsh weather, or if you’re protecting delicate plants, consider adding an extra layer of protection. You can attach garden fabric to the inside of the chicken wire cloche using small clips or zip ties. This fabric will provide additional insulation against cold temperatures and can help regulate moisture levels within the cloche.
Benefits of Using a Chicken Wire Garden Cloche
A chicken wire garden cloche offers several benefits:
- Cost-Effective: Chicken wire is an affordable material, making this a budget-friendly project.
- Durability: The metal wire is strong and weather-resistant, ensuring that your cloche will last through multiple seasons.
- Versatility: Chicken wire can be easily shaped and resized, making it adaptable to different plant types and garden layouts.
- Lightweight: Unlike glass or plastic cloches, chicken wire is lightweight, making it easy to move and adjust as needed.
- Protection: The cloche provides a physical barrier against pests like rabbits and birds, while still allowing sunlight, rain, and air to reach the plants.
5 Maintenance and Storage Tips
To ensure your chicken wire cloche lasts as long as possible, proper maintenance is essential. Here are some tips:
- Regular Inspection: Periodically check the cloche for signs of wear or damage. Look for rust spots or loose connections that could weaken the structure.
- Cleaning: If your cloche becomes dirty, clean it with a gentle spray of water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as these could damage the wire or harm your plants.
- Rust Prevention: To prevent rust, consider applying a light coat of rust-resistant spray to the wire before use. This will add an extra layer of protection, especially in humid climates.
- Storage: During the off-season, store your cloche in a dry place to prevent rust and damage. If possible, hang it up or place it on a raised surface to avoid contact with the ground.
- Repairs: If you notice any damage, such as broken wire or bent sections, make repairs promptly. Use wire cutters and pliers to remove damaged sections and replace them as needed.
Why should I use chicken wire for a garden cloche?
Chicken wire is a good choice for a garden cloche because it is lightweight, flexible, and durable. It provides protection from pests while allowing sunlight, air, and rain to reach your plants. Additionally, chicken wire is affordable and easy to work with.
How do I shape the chicken wire into a cloche?
After cutting the chicken wire to the desired size, you can shape it into a dome or cylinder by gently bending and molding it with your hands. It may help to use a large object like a bucket or can to help form a more even shape. Make sure to tuck in any sharp edges to prevent injury and ensure the cloche holds its form.
How big should my garden cloche be?
The size of your garden cloche depends on the plants you want to protect. Measure the height and width of your plants, then add a few inches to allow for growth and air circulation. The cloche should be tall and wide enough to cover the plants completely without touching them.
How do I secure the garden cloche to the ground?
To secure the cloche, ensure the edges of the chicken wire are pressed into the soil. If the wire is flexible enough, you can bend the bottom edges outward slightly to create small stakes that can be pushed into the ground. For added security, you can use garden staples or pegs to anchor the cloche further.
Can I reuse my chicken wire garden cloche?
Yes, chicken wire garden cloches are reusable. After the growing season, remove the cloches, clean off any dirt, and store them in a dry place. With proper care, they can last for several seasons.
What are the benefits of using a garden cloche?
A garden cloche protects your plants from pests, harsh weather, and frost. It can also create a mini-greenhouse effect, trapping warmth and promoting growth, especially in cooler climates. Using a cloche can extend your growing season by protecting young plants during early spring or late fall.
Are there any safety tips to keep in mind when making a chicken wire garden cloche?
When working with chicken wire, wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges. Be cautious when cutting and bending the wire to avoid injury. Make sure all cut edges are tucked in or secured to prevent them from catching on clothing or skin.
Can I customize my garden cloche?
Yes, you can customize your garden cloche by adding handles for easy lifting or reinforcing the structure with additional wire. You can also adjust the size and shape to fit specific plants or garden beds.
Final Words
Creating a garden cloche out of chicken wire is an easy and rewarding DIY project that offers numerous benefits for gardeners. This simple structure provides essential protection for your plants, allowing them to thrive in a safe and controlled environment. With minimal materials and tools, you can construct a durable, cost-effective cloche that will serve your garden well for years to come. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to enhancing your gardening experience and ensuring your plants’ health and productivity.