In recent years containers have become more popular when it comes to gardening with limited space. Indeed, some flower and vegetable varieties can even thrive in containers. A preferred style is the grow bag, a method of planting that can be traced back to ancient Egypt.
What are Grow Bags?
Most grow bags are made from a fabric material that allows the root structure of a plant to breathe. These bags are generally small in size, making them ideal for a patio or back porch.
A grow bag will usually have built-in handles that allow for easy transport. You can move them as needed to maximize your use of gardening space. These bags are also very versatile. They can be used to plant flowers as well as vegetables. There are even some varieties of potato that you can plant in a grow bag.
The Advantages of a Grow Bag
The advantages of a grow bag are considerable when weighed against pots or other types of firm garden containers. We’ve already mentioned that the fabric design is beneficial to roots. It allows for air to pass through the bag, constantly aerating the soil. It also helps to displace excess water to prevent rot and decay.
There are other benefits. Grow bags are portable, they can be easily moved from one place to another as need dictates. It is easier to control the temperature in a grow bag than it is in a traditional pot, and watering is more efficient.
How to Use a Grow Bag in Your Garden
The first thing that you will want to do is determine where you will place your grow bag. Good choices are a balcony, patio, or rooftop. Anywhere that you have a limited amount of space is great, but you need to make sure it gets the required amount of sunlight for the flower or vegetable varieties you’ll be planting.
The next step is to decide what you want to plant. You have quite a few options when it comes to plant selection:
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Pepper varieties
- Potatoes
- Select herbs
The key is using plants that have shallow roots. Larger bags can contain two to three plants, but keep in mind that plants growing under the ground need a little more room to spread.
General Grow Bag Tips for Optimum Results
You are probably going to be very happy with how easy it is to grow in a grow bag. With that being said, here are some tips that will take your grow pot gardening to the next level.
Buy the best grow bags. They may cost a little bit more, but your results will be better. Don’t be afraid of over-watering your plants. The material of the bag provides plenty of run-off. You will also want to label your different grow bags. You can support taller plants like tomatoes by using a dowel rod in the corner of the bag. Just tie the plant loosely to the stake.
There are so many possibilities when it comes to gardening with a grow bag, but we must warn you. Once you begin growing this way you will probably be hooked.
