In a plastic container the roots will get to the edge but continue to grow. They will be forced to grow in a circular pattern which causes the plant to become root bound.

In a grow bag, the bags are porous so when they reach the edge of the bag they will stop growing. This will lead to healthier roots.

What plants are best suited to grow bags. The answer is that you can grow nearly any crop in a grow bag that you can grow in a container or raised bed. If you put the plants in the right environmental conditions with well-drained soil and apply water it properly, the plants will perform well.

The surface does make a difference. On a hard surface, the grow bags only received the water from rain and from you. But the bags sitting on the lawn also had the opportunity to wick up moisture from the bottom.

Another issue with a solid base like a driveway or patio is staining. The bag will leave a dirty ring, but you can put a liner underneath the bag to protect the surface. You could also prop the bag up on bricks, but then the bottom of the bag will be exposed and will dry out the root mass faster. You’ll need to water more often.

Grow bags require well-draining soil that retains just enough moisture so the root mass will not dry out between watering. Bagged products labeled as potting soil or container mix are ideal.

Grow bags dry out fast so you will have to make sure they are watered frequently.

To help the soil keep moisture in, apply organic mulch.

Vegetable crops require full sun: between six and eight hours a day of direct sunlight.

Grow bags don’t have any more pest issues than raised beds do. Some grow bags have flaps to check the plants. If you find ants or other insects inside the bag most of the time they are harmless.

The answer is yes. When growing plants that require supports, don’t overthink it. If a tomato cage risks puncturing holes in the bottom of a grow bag, don’t worry about it. The bags are porous anyway, so a few holes won’t affect their integrity.

You can also use a cage that is bigger than the bag itself. You can also pound stakes into the ground around the outside of the bag.