Potatoes grow well in almost any space, and grow bags make the process even easier. They are popular among gardeners because they save space, improve drainage, and make harvesting simple. But the key question is: what size grow bag is best for potatoes?
The right size depends on how many potatoes you want to grow, the variety you choose, and the harvest you expect. In this guide, we’ll cover the ideal grow bag sizes, how many seed potatoes to plant per bag, tips for better yields, and answers to common questions so you can grow potatoes successfully at home.
Why Grow Potatoes in Grow Bags?
Before diving into sizes, it is worth understanding why grow bags are such a great option for potato cultivation.
- Space-Saving
Not everyone has a large garden plot, and that is perfectly fine. Grow bags make it possible to grow potatoes on small balconies, patios, or even in an apartment with enough sunlight. - Better Drainage and Aeration
Unlike traditional pots, grow bags are made from breathable materials like fabric or nonwoven polypropylene. This allows excess water to drain away while providing oxygen to the roots, reducing the risk of root rot. - Mobility
Grow bags can be moved easily. If the sun shifts during the day, you can simply drag or lift the bags to ensure your potatoes get maximum sunlight exposure. - Pest and Disease Reduction
Growing potatoes in bags reduces the chance of soil-borne pests and diseases that are common in traditional gardens. - Ease of Harvest
Instead of digging through soil to find potatoes, you simply dump the contents of the bag. Harvesting becomes fast, clean, and fun.
What Size Grow Bag is Best for Potatoes?
Grow bags come in many different sizes, usually measured in gallons. The most common potato grow bags range from 5 gallons up to 25 gallons or more. The right choice depends on how many seed potatoes you want to grow in each bag and how much yield you want to harvest.
Small Grow Bags (5–7 gallons)
- Capacity for 1–2 seed potatoes
- Suitable for beginners, children, or gardeners with very limited space
- Produce smaller yields but perfect for trying out potato growing on a balcony
Medium Grow Bags (10–15 gallons)
- Capacity for 3–5 seed potatoes
- The most popular choice among home gardeners
- Provides a balance between space efficiency and good yield
Large Grow Bags (20–25 gallons or more)
- Capacity for 6–8 seed potatoes
- Best for people who want larger harvests in fewer bags
- Heavier to move around but highly productive
Table: Potato Grow Bag Sizes and Their Uses
| Grow Bag Size | Capacity (Gallons) | Ideal Seed Potatoes | Expected Yield | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 5–7 | 1–2 | Low | Beginners, small balconies |
| Medium | 10–15 | 3–5 | Moderate | Home gardeners with patios or backyards |
| Large | 20–25+ | 6–8 | High | Enthusiasts, families, larger harvests |
How Many Potatoes Can You Plant Per Bag?
The general rule of thumb is:
- 1 seed potato for every 3–5 gallons of bag capacity
That means:
- 5–7 gallon bag → 1–2 seed potatoes
- 10–15 gallon bag → 3–5 seed potatoes
- 20–25 gallon bag → 6–8 seed potatoes
If you overcrowd the bag, your potatoes will compete for nutrients and space, leading to many small tubers instead of a few good-sized ones. If you under-plant, you might waste space. The key is balance.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Grow Bag Size
- Available Space
Do you only have a balcony corner, or do you have a large backyard? The size of your space will often dictate the size of your grow bags. - Potato Variety
- Early potatoes (small, fast-growing varieties) require less space.
- Maincrop potatoes (bigger varieties meant for storage) need larger bags.
- Climate and Growing Season
In shorter growing seasons, smaller bags with fewer potatoes may be more effective since they mature faster. - Harvest Goals
Do you just want some fresh potatoes for family meals, or are you aiming to stock up for months? Your harvest goals determine whether you should use small, medium, or large bags. - Weight and Mobility
Large bags filled with soil can be heavy and hard to move. If mobility is important, medium bags may be the best option.
Tips for Growing Potatoes in Grow Bags
- Soil Preparation
Use loose, well-draining soil enriched with compost. Avoid heavy garden soil that compacts easily. - Planting Technique
Start with 4–6 inches of soil at the bottom, place your seed potatoes, then cover with another 3–4 inches of soil. As the plant grows, keep adding soil (“hilling up”) until the bag is full. - Sunlight
Potatoes need at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Place your bags where they will receive maximum exposure. - Watering
Bags dry out faster than the ground. Check soil moisture regularly and water deeply to keep it evenly moist. - Fertilization
Potatoes are heavy feeders. Use a balanced fertilizer during growth and add extra potassium to encourage tuber development.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using bags that are too small → roots become cramped, yields are low.
- Overcrowding with too many seed potatoes → stunted growth and smaller potatoes.
- Under-watering → soil in bags dries out faster than expected.
- Forgetting to add soil gradually → tubers become exposed and turn green.
Alternatives to Grow Bags for Potatoes
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grow Bags | Portable, breathable, easy harvest | Can dry out quickly | Small spaces, home gardens |
| Buckets/Containers | Durable, reusable | Poor aeration compared to fabric | Balcony gardeners |
| Raised Beds | Large growing area, good yields | Permanent, not portable | Garden owners |
| Ground Planting | Natural growth, high potential yield | Requires space and weeding | Traditional gardeners |
Conclusion
The size of your grow bag directly impacts the success of your potato harvest. Small bags suit beginners or limited spaces, medium bags are ideal for most home gardeners, and large bags work best for those aiming for bigger yields. As a simple rule, plan for about one seed potato per 3–5 gallons of grow bag capacity.
With the right bag size, good soil, and proper care, anyone can enjoy fresh, healthy potatoes at home.
As a manufacturer specializing in high-quality grow bags, we work with distributors, retailers, and agricultural brands worldwide to deliver reliable, durable products that meet diverse market needs. If you are sourcing grow bags in bulk or exploring private-label solutions, our team can provide customized options to support your business.
FAQs
What size grow bag is best for beginners?
A 10–15 gallon grow bag is perfect for beginners. It is easy to manage, provides enough space for a good harvest, and is not too heavy to move around.
Can I reuse potato grow bags?
Yes, most fabric grow bags can be reused for several seasons. Just make sure to clean and disinfect them after each use to prevent disease carryover.
How many potatoes can I expect per plant in a grow bag?
On average, each seed potato can yield 5–10 potatoes, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
Do I need to drill holes in grow bags?
No, most fabric grow bags are already breathable and provide excellent drainage. If using plastic containers, however, holes are necessary.
What happens if I overcrowd my grow bag?
The plants will compete for nutrients and space, resulting in small, low-quality potatoes. Always stick to the recommended number of seed potatoes per bag size.
Which potato varieties grow best in bags?
Early and mid-season varieties tend to perform best in grow bags since they mature faster and do not require as much space as large maincrop varieties.
