The metal framework has been hand painted in an off white, similar to the original Victorian models. Over time the frame will start to rust, giving the cloche and authentic old-fashioned look.

The horticultural glass has been fitted to the inside of the cast iron frame. The glass will trap the sun’s warmth, pre warming the soil and ensuring a faster start to the growing season. When the weather warms, the top can be rotated 45 degrees, allowing ventilation for the plants. In Summer the roof can be completely removed.

The larger footprint of the 18" Victorian cloche will allow cucumber plants to grow under glass during the summer. This is especially beneficial in more northern gardens where outdoor crops would be less reliable.

Bell type cloches were originally invented in France to allow market gardeners to produce earlier crops – the word cloche means ‘bell’ in French. Cast iron cloches were popular in Victorian kitchen gardens as they would allow early and out of season vegetables for the household of the landowner. A large, walled kitchen garden would have a number of cloches to bring on particular vegetables. Unlike the bell type cloches, the cast iron framework allowed a larger and taller cloche to be constructed and the removable top allowed more ventilation options, with the lid being rotated to reduce or increase ventilation.

For the keen gardener, a cast iron garden cloche will provide a wonderful birthday or Christmas present. The cloches can be used on the vegetable patch or in the flower border and are sure to be a talking point in the garden.

Size: 18 inches (44cm) square. Height without handle 16 inches(41cm). Hand-made in India. Supplied fully assembled.

Features:

• Cast iron framework
• Hand painted in off white
• Real glass glazing
• Cast iron cloche supplied assembled