Fabric pots are one of my favorite ways to grow vegetable plants. They are low cost and mine have lasted for over five years so far.
Lightweight and Breathable
Fabric grow bags are made of lightweight materials. The current brand I am using comes in 3 different sizes and is made of polyester. Even when filled and watered, I have no issue moving them around if needed. They have handles, and the quality is excellent. My preference is pots with handles, as this makes them easier to move around if you need to pull a plant into the shade or move it where it will get more sun. The fabric allows air to get through to the roots. Grow bags are incredibly durable. I am in my 5th growing season, and my bags stay out year-round. They are showing no signs of deterioration.
Good Drainage
The material of the grow bags allows for good drainage to keep you from over-watering your plants. There is no need for holes in the fabric as in other container types. The breathable material allows for water to leave out the sides or bottom. It is important to note that if you live in an area that gets very hot summers you may need to water your fabric pots more frequently as they will dry out quicker. If you are using the grow bags in doors you will need to have the bag on a saucer to catch the excess water.
Healthy Root System
In a fabric grow bag, roots are air-pruned. In non-fabric containers, the roots will grow down, eventually get to the bottom, and start circling around themselves, causing plants to become root-bound and stressed. Being root-bound can stunt or eventually kill a plant.
With the fabric pot, your roots will touch the sides of the pot and will automatically be pruned by air, essentially ” burning” the roots. Air pruning causes the root mass to create new roots, which will, in turn, create a healthier root structure. Healthier and more productive plants are the result of air pruning. The soil in fabric pots doesn’t get compacted as it can in other types of containers which also contributes to better growing conditions.
Easy Storage
Grow bags can be emptied, and the bags can be washed and folded up for storage when not in use. I use my grow bags year-round, but I do keep a few extra on hand, and they are easy to store as they don’t take up much room when folded up.
Temperature Control
The grow bags keep soil from getting too hot in the summer, allowing them to stay warmer in the cooler months. This is because the fabric allows proper airflow to the soil and roots.
I am currently growing various plants in three, five, seven, and ten-gallon size fabric grow bags. I have found numerous benefits to this type of pot, which has been increasing in popularity over the past few years. From cost to convenience, this way of growing a container is hands down, #1 for me. I grow flowers, herbs, squash, beans, peppers, and tomatoes, to name a few. We knew we would be moving, so I started growing in these fabric pots, and they moved with us!
Fabric pots are inexpensive, versatile, and a game changer for gardening.
