A cloche is simply a structure which is placed around plants to cover and protect them. They come in many different shapes and sizes are made of various materials. Cloches were traditionally made of glass but are now often made of plastic. Open weave baskets and wire covered with mesh or netting can also be used.

In an organic garden, it is probably best to use natural and/or recyclable materials for a cloche. Personally, I would avoid buying a plastic cloche, however, if you have some suitable plastic around your home, such as used large plastic soft drink bottles, then these can easily be reused as a cloche.

Advantages of Cloches

Using cloches is an excellent organic way to protect your fruit and vegetables from pests. A cloche places a physical barrier between pests and plants, eliminating the need for pesticides. There are many uses and benefits of cloches:

• to protect plants from insects
• to protect plants from snails
• to protect plants from birds
• to protect from severe weather
• to protect new cuttings
• to warm the soil prior to planting
• to extend the season for herbs and some vegetables
• to protect vegetables from frost

Cloches can protect from the following pests:

• flies
• moths
• beetles
• aphids
• birds
• rabbits

Disadvantages of Cloches

• Cloches can encourage diseases.
• Cloches can speed up the germination and growth of weeds.
• Cloches can prevent pollination.
• Cloches make watering difficult.

Cloches are a temporary protective measure and when used for short periods of time, can be of great assistance to the organic gardener.

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