If you are wondering what to grow in 5 gallon grow bags, you are in the right place. Five-gallon bags are one of the most versatile container sizes for home gardeners. They are big enough to handle a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, fruits, and flowers, yet small enough to move around easily on a patio, balcony, or backyard. In this guide, we will walk through the best crops you can grow, how much soil you will need, and practical tips to help your plants thrive.
Why Choose 5 Gallon Grow Bags
Five-gallon grow bags hit the sweet spot between convenience and productivity. They are compact, affordable, and easy to handle, but still large enough for many popular crops. Unlike hard pots, grow bags are breathable, which helps prevent root circling and encourages healthier growth.
Another big advantage is portability. You can shift your plants around to catch the sun or move them indoors when the weather changes. For gardeners with limited space, such as apartment balconies or urban patios, 5 gallon grow bags provide flexibility without sacrificing yield.
What to Grow in 5 Gallon Grow Bags
Now let’s dive into the main question—what to grow in 5 gallon grow bags. The answer is: a lot more than you might think. This size bag supports a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, compact fruits, and even flowers.
Vegetables That Thrive
- Tomatoes: Cherry and dwarf varieties grow especially well. One plant per bag is plenty.
- Peppers: Bell peppers, chili peppers, and jalapenos love this container size.
- Cucumbers: Bush varieties do best, and you can even add a small trellis.
- Beans: Bush beans thrive with plenty of drainage and full sun.
- Leafy Greens: Lettuce, kale, and spinach do not need deep soil, so they thrive here.
Herbs That Love Small Spaces
Herbs are perfect for 5 gallon grow bags. You can plant several small ones together or dedicate a bag to a single vigorous grower.
- Basil
- Parsley
- Mint (best grown alone because it spreads fast)
- Chives
- Oregano
Fruits That Work Well
- Strawberries: Compact and productive, they fit nicely.
- Blueberries: Choose dwarf varieties.
- Small melons: Certain mini melon types can succeed with proper support.
Flowers for Color and Pollination
Adding flowers not only brightens your garden but also attracts pollinators.
- Marigolds
- Petunias
- Zinnias
Grow Bag Size Guide and Soil Requirements
How to Choose the Right Grow Bag Size
A 5 gallon grow bag is great for medium plants, but it is important to know when you might need a larger size.
- 3 gallon bags work for herbs and small leafy greens
- 5 gallon bags suit tomatoes, peppers, strawberries, and flowers
- 7–10 gallon bags are better for larger plants like eggplants or potatoes
How Much Soil is Needed for Each Grow Bag
A 5 gallon grow bag holds about 0.7 cubic feet of soil or roughly 18–20 pounds of potting mix. Fill the bag three quarters full, then top with compost and fertilizer.
Best Soil Mix and Fertilizers for 5 Gallon Grow Bags
Good soil is the key to success. A lightweight, well-draining mix works best. Try this blend:
- 40 percent high quality potting soil
- 30 percent compost
- 20 percent coco coir or peat moss
- 10 percent perlite for drainage
Fertilizer matters too. Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer at planting time, then feed with liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during the growing season.
Tips for Successful Gardening in 5 Gallon Grow Bags
- Watering: Grow bags dry out faster than pots. Water deeply until it drains out the bottom.
- Drainage: Always make sure extra water can escape to avoid root rot.
- Sunlight: Place the bags where they get 6–8 hours of sun daily.
- Seasonal Planting: Rotate crops between warm-season and cool-season plants to keep the soil fresh.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding: Do not plant more than one tomato or pepper in a 5 gallon bag.
- Poor soil: Garden dirt compacts and drains poorly. Stick to potting mixes.
- Ignoring drainage: If water pools, roots will suffocate.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly what to grow in 5 gallon grow bags and how to care for them. These containers are practical, affordable, and perfect for small-space gardening. From tomatoes to herbs to strawberries, the variety you can grow is impressive.
If you are looking for reliable and customizable grow bags for your business, we can help. As a professional grow bags manufacturer, we create high quality grow bags tailored to your needs, available in bulk with flexible customization. Get in touch today and let us provide the right solution for your gardening projects.
FAQ
Can you grow root vegetables in 5 gallon grow bags?
Yes, carrots, radishes, and even smaller potato varieties can grow, though for large root crops, a bigger bag is better.
How many plants per bag?
One tomato, pepper, or cucumber per bag. For herbs, you can plant 2–3 together if they stay small.
How long do grow bags last?
High quality grow bags last 3–5 seasons with proper care.
Can I order custom grow bags in bulk?
Yes, as a manufacturer we provide wholesale grow bags in different sizes, colors, and materials. Custom printing with your brand logo is also available.
