The Complete Guide to Growing Tomatoes in Tomato Grow Bags
If you’re short on space but still dream of juicy homegrown tomatoes, tomato grow bags are your new best friend. Whether you have a small patio or balcony or don’t want to dig up your yard, tomato planting in grow bags is one of the easiest, most rewarding ways to garden.
In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about growing tomatoes in grow bags—from picking the best bags to watering, supporting, and harvesting your plants. I’ll also include real-life tips, reviews of top-rated Amazon grow bags, and funny stories from my backyard.
What Are Tomato Grow Bags?
Tomato grow bags are durable, breathable containers that hold soil and plants without a traditional garden bed. These bags promote healthy root systems and excellent drainage—two things tomato plants love.
You’ve probably seen them called:
- Grow bags for tomatoes
- Tomato planters for grow bags
- Grow bag tomato planter
- Or even just tomato bags for growing
Whatever the label, the concept is the same—and they work wonders.
Why Use Grow Bags for Tomatoes?
I planted tomatoes in a grow bag when I ran out of garden space. Now, I prefer it. Here’s why:
- Better Drainage – No soggy soil problems.
- Root Air Pruning – Stops roots from circling, encouraging stronger growth.
- Portable – Move them for more sun or protection.
- Less Weeding – No surprise dandelions here!
- Ideal for Urban Gardeners – Great for patios, decks, and balconies.
If you’re wondering how to grow tomatoes in grow bags, it’s easier than you think—no green thumb required.
Best Tomato Grow Bags to Buy (Amazon Picks)
Looking for the best? I’ve tested several over the years, and here are the grow bags I keep coming back to:
1. VIVOSUN 10 Gallon Grow Bags with Handles
Sturdy, breathable, and reusable. Perfect size for one large tomato plant.
Check on Amazon.
2. Gardzen 10 Pack Fabric Grow Bags
Affordable and ideal for growing tomatoes in grow bags if you plant in bulk.
Ckeck on Amazon.
3. Upsimples Grow Bag Planters with Flaps
These come with a handy harvest window—especially useful for potatoes, but I’ve grown cherry tomatoes in them too.
Ckeck on Amazon.
How to Grow Tomatoes in Grow Bags: Step-by-Step
1. Choose the Right Size Grow Bag
The best size for tomatoes is 7 to 10 gallons.
Large Tomato Grow Bags
2. Use Quality Soil Mix
Go for a mix of compost, peat-free potting mix, and perlite. Tomatoes need rich, well-draining soil.
3. Plant Tomato Seedlings
Start small, planting one tomato plant per grow bag. If you’re wondering how many tomato plants per grow bag, the safe answer is one. Overcrowding stunts growth.
4. Water Regularly
Tomatoes in grow bags need consistent watering—daily during hot spells. A drip system helps.
Drip Irrigation Kit for Grow Bags
5. Fertilise Every 2 Weeks
Use an organic tomato fertiliser for the best results.
Tomato Fertiliser on Amazon
Supporting Tomato Plants in Grow Bags
A common challenge when using tomato grow bags is support. These plants get heavy as fruit sets.
- Use tomato cages or bamboo stakes.
- Add a grow bag frame if needed.
- Tomato Plant Supports for Grow Bags
Don’t skip this step—supporting tomatoes in grow bags prevents snapped stems and sad, sunburned tomatoes.
Real Story: How Grow Bags Saved My Tomatoes
Last year, nonstop rain flooded most of my raised beds. But the tomato plants in grow bags? Thriving. I had moved them to a sunny porch, kept them watered, and the drainage in those bags saved them from root rot.
One tip I learned the hard way is to avoid placing your tomato grow bags on concrete during heat waves—it cooks the roots. I now place mine on wooden pallets or gravel for airflow.
Tomato Grow Bag FAQs
How many tomato plants can I grow in one grow bag?
One large tomato plant per 10-gallon bag is ideal. Small cherry varieties may allow two.
When should I plant tomatoes in grow bags?
After the last frost, in most U.S. zones, that’s mid to late spring.
Can you reuse tomato grow bags?
Yes! Just wash, dry, and store correctly. Quality fabric bags can last 3–5 seasons.
What size grow bag is best for tomatoes?
Look for 7–10 gallon grow bags for full-size tomato varieties.
Are grow bags better than pots for tomatoes?
In many ways—yes. They offer better drainage and prevent root circling.
Growing Tomatoes in Grow Bags vs Pots
FeatureGrow BagsPots
Drainage Excellent. Depends on pot design
Root Health Promotes air pruning. Roots may become bound
Portability: Lightweight with handles. Heavier
Storage After Season Folds flat. Takes up space
Final Tips for Tomato Planting in Grow Bags
- Rotate grow bags each year to avoid soil disease.
- Mulch the top to keep moisture in.
- Prune suckers (those little shoots in leaf joints) for bigger fruit.
- Choose disease-resistant tomato varieties.
Shop Best Tomato Varieties on Amazon
Final Thoughts: Why Tomato Grow Bags Are Worth It
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gardener, tomato grow bags make life easier. You don’t need perfect soil, lots of space, or fancy tools—just a good suitcase, sun, water, and a little care.
Growing tomato plants in grow bags to enjoy the first sun-warmed harvest on your porch is one of the simplest ways to fall in love with gardening again.
