I'm a little confused about how to utilize a cold frame.

Do I put the started plants (vegetables) in the cold frame and leave them there (unless a severe frost); only adjust the door so as not to overheat.

Should I move the plants inside during the evening when hardening off - just like when you don't use a cold frame?

Do I only put the plants in there 1 hour at first; then increase by an hour each day - just like without a cold frame?

If I have to move them inside during the process, why bother with a cold frame?

At what point to I put them in the cold frame?

PLease help. I'm suffering from research overload.
bob

== You can use CF to shelter seedlings, BOTH during hardening off and later, IF and When there is danger of frost or it is going to be a chilli night.

An example of CF Use:
I have already sown seeds of lettuce and few other cold crop in there. This gives me a pretty good idea as when I should start more. Of, course, it depend on your climate (sunshine) and location of your cold frame. More sun translate to much early use of CF. As I mentioned, it is a mini unheated greenhouse.

== you can keep certain smaller seedlings in CF for a while early spring, to let them grow bigger, before transplanting. This will depend on how big and how tall your CF is. Slightly taller ones can accommodate bigger pots and plants.

CAUTION: In a hot sunny day, CF can get real HOT inside. Therefore you have to vent it (by partially leaving the cover open). Otherwise you may cook your plants. This can happen in greenhouse too.