Have you ever seen people growing their plants in bags? Such a practice is becoming increasingly popular as it allows more flexibility. You may be wondering, ‘how long do grow bags last?’
Compared to other methods, using grow bags makes moving your plants from your house (where you might have started them) to the outdoor conditions much more practical.
Also, you’ll be able to move and position these bags where you please, making it easier to organize your landscape. And if you need to overwinter them, don’t worry: you can take them back indoors without too much effort.
Additionally, if your yard’s substrate is poor or of low quality, you won’t have to worry about it anymore when using grow bags.
But what should you know about these fabric-like or plastic bags for growing plants? Keep reading this essential guide to learning everything you need to know!
What Can You Plant in Grow Bags?
You can fill grow bags with virtually any potting mix or medium. Typically, such containers consist of plastic material, but you can find some in breathable fabrics that might lower problems with pests and fungal infections.
However, grow bags aren’t suitable for all plants. Indeed, the limited growing space and the relatively shallow ground make them unpractical to some plants.
But species that don’t have deep roots will thrive even in grow bags. Examples include tomatoes, potatoes, herbs, pepper, and other vegetables, but also flowering plants that you may be able to grow in a container.
And the best part about these solutions is that you don’t need a garden to grow your vegetables. You can place grow bags on your porch or balcony. But don’t forget to ensure your plants get all they need to thrive. Ensure you check with their requirements before picking a position for them.
What Are The Benefits of Growing Plants in Bags?
Besides the ones we mentioned already, other benefits of using grow bags include (among others) the formation of a healthier root system. Indeed, when you add your plants to a pot, roots might circle, which might cause uneven development and other issues. And this doesn’t usually happen in grow bags.
Also, the small holes in the bag’s fabric usually allow adequate air circulation and easy access to essential nutrients in the roots. Instead, in traditional plastic containers, your plant’s roots might grow out, limiting the ability to absorb nutrients.
Additionally, if you tend to have issues with overwatering, using grow bags might help you overcome them. The small holes in the fabric allow for excess water to drain, which, in turn, decreases the appearance of fungal infections and mold.
However, keep in mind that such a situation might make you more prone to underwater your plants as the soil will rather quickly than in other containers. Don’t forget to follow a consistent watering schedule. Also, feel the ground with your fingers to get a sense of the moisture needs of your plants.
Finally, growing plants out of growing bags takes less time and require less planning, meaning you’ll get results sooner.
How long do grow bags last?
Answering these questions isn’t as straightforward as you may expect because it depends on the care you provide to your bag. Also, the quality of the product you choose will have an impact.
For instance, some grow bags can be used for only 2 to 3 growing seasons, while others might stay in good shape for up to 8 seasons. Still, adequate care can help you increase their durability.
Your grow bag will last much longer if you clean it frequently, store it properly, and move it paying attention to what’s around. For instance, avoid dragging your bags through rocky surfaces and be careful with their bottoms.
You can protect them using a flat piece of plastic or wood. Ensure you clean your bags to remove chemicals left behind from fertilizer, manure, or other additives you may have used to grow your plants. Rinse them with water and let them dry.
Also, your bags’ material will affect their longevity. For instance, recycled plastic might last up to 5 years, while you can use fabric for more than eight years.
How long do grow bags last: Conclusion
If you want to extend the life of your grow bags, consider repairing them. Patch any holes using durable thread or suitable material to cover the opening. You can even cut pieces from a used bag and “glue” them into the hole.
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