13" Cast Iron Garden Cloche

Manufactured from cast iron and glazed in horticultural glass this sturdy structure will withstand rain, snow and gales and is an ideal way of protecting more delicate plants in the garden. 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 an authentic old-fashioned look. The horticultural glass has been fitted to the cast iron frame's interior. The glass will trap the sun’s warmth 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. 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 several cloches to bring on particular vegetables. Unlike the bell-type cloches, the cast iron framework allowed a larger and taller cloche to be constructed. The removable top allowed more ventilation options, with the lid being rotated to reduce or increase ventilation.

A cast iron garden cloche will provide a wonderful birthday or Christmas present for the keen gardener. 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: 13 inches (33cm) square. Height without handle 16 inches (41cm). Hand made in India. The cast iron cloche is supplied assembled.