How to Make a Chicken Wire Garden Cloche
Garden cloches are fantastic for protecting plants from unwanted pests while adding a charming touch to your garden. However, they can get pricey, especially for larger gardens. In this article, I’ll guide you through crafting your own chicken wire cloche using a flower pot as a template. Let’s get started!
Why Use a Chicken Wire Garden Cloche?
Before diving into the tutorial, let’s discuss why this DIY gardening project is worth your time:
- Protects the Plants: A chicken wire garden cloche creates a barrier against pests like birds, rabbits, raccoons, and possums, ensuring your plants stay safe.
- Customizable Size and Shape: Using a flower pot as a guide allows you to customize the cloche to fit your specific garden layout and plant types.
- Affordable: The materials, such as chicken wire and a flower pot, are cost-effective, making this a budget-friendly option for any gardener.
- Durable: A well-made chicken wire garden cloche can last multiple seasons with minimal maintenance, offering long-term plant protection.
Plants That Benefit from a Chicken Wire Garden Cloche
Many plants can benefit from the protection of a chicken wire cloche, such as:
- Early Seedlings: Protect them from being trampled, allowing them to grow strong and healthy.
- Strawberries: Keep the critters away long enough for you to enjoy a sweet harvest.
- Herbs: Thyme, oregano, sage, rosemary, and lavender benefit from early-stage protection.
- Lettuce: Prevent nibbles and ensure a fuller crop.
- Blueberries: Shield young bushes from birds to save your harvest.
Step-by-Step Guide to Create Your Chicken Wire Garden Cloche
Materials You Will Need
Gather the following materials before you begin:
- 1″ Chicken wire mesh
- Flower pot (for size and shape template)
- Wire cutters or Tin snips
- Gloves (for safety)
- Long nose pliers
- Decorative knobs
- Medium gauge wire or garden pins (optional)
Using the Flower Pot as a Template
Lay the chicken wire on a flat surface and use your flower pot as a guide. Roll the wire around the pot to determine the correct size and shape for your cloche.
Cutting and Shaping the Chicken Wire
With your wire cutters, carefully cut the wire according to the template size, leaving extra for securing the edges. Position the pre-cut wire over the flower pot and mold it around the pot, ensuring the bottom remains open for later removal.
Securing the Edges
Once shaped, use pliers to twist and secure the overlapping edges of the chicken wire. Adjust and trim any protruding pieces to achieve the desired look.
Adding the Knob Handle
Add a decorative knob to the cloche’s center top, using flat washers to keep the knob secure. This makes the cloche functional and adds a creative touch.
Placing the Chicken Wire Garden Cloche
Carefully place your finished cloche over the desired plants. Secure it with garden pins or medium gauge wire to ensure it stays in place, even in windy conditions.
Final Thoughts on DIY Gardening
Crafting a chicken wire garden cloche is a fun and practical DIY gardening project. It adds both beauty and function to your garden. By following these steps, you can protect your plants and enjoy the process. Happy gardening!
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