What to Grow in Grow Bags: The Complete 1–400 Gallon Size Guide

Introduction

These fabric grow bags also called fabric pots. The size range from small 1-gallon containers to massive 400-gallon systems. Each size supports different types of plants.

You will learn what you can grow in grow bags of every size. This guide will help you choose the right crops for every grow bag size.

Why Grow Bags Are Ideal for Growing Plants?

Before choosing what to grow in fabric pots, it helps to understand why they work so well.

✔️ Excellent aeration for stronger root systems.

✔️ Prevent root circling (air pruning).

✔️ Better drainage than plastic pots.

✔️ Portable and space-efficient.

These grow bags can support everything from herbs to fruit trees.

What to Grow in Small Grow Bags (1–3 Gallons)

Small grow bags are best for compact, shallow-rooted plants.

Best plants for 1–3 gallon grow bags:

✅ Lettuce.

✅ Spinach.

✅ Arugula.

✅ Green onions.

✅ Cilantro.

✅ Basil.

✅ Radishes.

These crops grow quickly and don’t need deep soil.

Tips:

✅ Water more frequently (small bags dry out fast).

✅ Use high-quality potting mix.

✅ Great for high-density planting.

Check our guide for a more detailed breakdown:

What to Grow in 1-2 Gallon Grow Bags

What to Grow in 3 Gallon Grow Bags

What to Grow in Medium Grow Bags (5–10 Gallons)

This is the most popular range for home gardeners. If you’re asking what can you grow in grow bags, this size covers the widest variety.

Best plants for 5–10 gallon grow bags:

✅ Tomatoes (determinate & indeterminate).

✅ Peppers (bell & chili).

✅ Eggplant.

✅ Bush beans.

✅ Carrots.

✅ Beets.

✅ Kale.

✅ Swiss chard.

Tips:

✅ Add stakes or cages for support.

✅ One plant per bag for large crops (like tomatoes).

✅ Ideal for patio and backyard gardening.

Check our guide for a more detailed breakdown:

What to Grow in 5 Gallon Grow Bags

What to Grow in 7 Gallon Grow Bags

What to Grow in 10 Gallon Grow Bags

What to Grow in Large Grow Bags (15–25 Gallons)

Large grow bags allow for bigger plants and higher yields.

Best plants for 15–25 gallon grow bags:

✅ Potatoes.

✅ Zucchini.

✅ Cucumbers.

✅ Broccoli.

✅ Cauliflower.

✅ Small fruit bushes (blueberries, dwarf varieties).

Tips:

✅ Space plants properly.

✅ Use nutrient-rich soil.

✅ Mulch to retain moisture.

Check our guide for a more detailed breakdown:

What to Grow in 15 Gallon Grow Bags

What to Grow in 20 Gallon Grow Bags

What to Grow in 25 Gallon Grow Bags

What to Grow in Extra-Large Grow Bags (30–100 Gallons)

At this size, grow bags can support multiple plants or larger crops.

Best plants for 30–100 gallon grow bags:

✅ Multiple tomato plants.

✅ Squash and pumpkins.

✅ Sweet corn (in groups).

✅ Fruit trees (dwarf or semi-dwarf).

✅ Large herb gardens.

Tips:

✅ Treat like a raised bed.

✅ Combine companion plants.

✅ Ensure strong sunlight exposure.

Check our guide for a more detailed breakdown:

What to Grow in 30–100 Gallon Grow Bags

What to Grow in Giant Grow Bags (150–400 Gallons)

These are typically used for commercial growing or serious gardening setups.

Best plants for 150–400 gallon grow bags:

✅ Full-size fruit trees.

✅ Grapevines.

✅ Large berry patches.

✅ Mixed vegetable beds.

✅ Perennial plants.

Tips:

✅ Position carefully (hard to move when filled).

✅ Install irrigation systems.

✅ Ideal for greenhouse or farm use.

Check our guide for a more detailed breakdown:

What to Grow in 150–400 Gallon Grow Bags

Quick Reference: Best Plants by Grow Bag Size

This is where most growers make mistakes: overcrowding reduces yield.

👉 Swipe the table left/right to view all size details.

Grow Bag Size	What to Grow
1–3 Gallon	Herbs, leafy greens, radishes
5–10 Gallon	Tomatoes, peppers, carrots, kale
15–25 Gallon	Potatoes, cucumbers, zucchini
30–100 Gallon	Corn, squash, fruit trees
150–400 Gallon	Trees, vines, mixed crops

Tips for Choosing the Right Plants for Grow Bags

To get the best results, always match the plant with the bag size.

Consider Root Depth

Deep-rooted plants need larger grow bags.

Avoid Overcrowding

Too many plants reduce yield and increase disease risk.

Use the Right Soil Mix

A mix of compost, coco coir, and perlite works best.

Water Consistently

Grow bags drain quickly, especially in hot climates.

Feed Regularly

Nutrients leach faster than in-ground soil.

Quick Reference: Grow Bag Soil Volume Chart

This is where most growers make mistakes: overcrowding reduces yield.

👉 Swipe the table left/right to view all size details.

Grow Bag Size	Soil Needed (Cubic Feet)	Approx. Quarts)
1–2 Gallon	0.15 – 0.30 cu ft	5 – 10 qt
3 Gallon	~0.4 cu ft	~15 qt
5 Gallon	~0.7 cu ft	~25–28 qt
7 Gallon	~1.0 cu ft	~35–40 qt
10 Gallon	~1.3 – 1.5 cu ft	~50–60 qt
15 Gallon	~2.0 cu ft	~75 qt
20 Gallon	~2.5 – 3.0 cu ft	~95–110 qt
25 Gallon	~3.5 cu ft	~130 qt
30–100 Gallon	~4 – 13+ cu ft	~150 – 500 qt
150–400 Gallon	~20 – 54+ cu ft	~750 – 2000 qt

For best results, fill grow bags to about 90–95% of their capacity. Leave 1–2 inches of space at the top for watering and airflow.

Conclusion

So, what to plant in grow bags? The answer is almost anything with the right size. Fabric grow bags provide a flexible and efficient way to grow plants in any space.