Growing Potatoes in Bags or Containers

We have been growing potatoes for many years and here we look at How to grow potatoes in bags.

Growing potatoes in bags or containers is an easy and practical option for home gardeners who don’t have a lot of space. Potatoes grow well in pots, tubs, grow bags and other deep containers, making them suitable for courtyards, balconies and small backyards.

Container growing also allows better control over soil quality and drainage, which can improve results.

Why Grow Potatoes in Bags or Containers?

Growing potatoes in containers has several advantages:

• Ideal for small spaces and urban gardens
• Easier to manage soil and drainage
• Fewer problems with soil-borne pests and diseases
• Harvesting is simple — no digging required
• Containers can be moved to follow the sun

Choosing the Right Grow Bag or Container

As will see in the demonstration Video on How to grow potatoes in bags, we choose to use hessian sacks rather than plastic – for a few reasons.

Plastic grow bags will degrade over time, particularly when exposed to sunlight and weather. As they break down, small plastic fragments may be left behind in the soil. These microplastics do not decompose naturally and can remain in the soil for long periods.

Using natural materials such as hessian reduces the risk of plastic residue entering garden soil, which is an important consideration for gardeners growing edible crops.

Potatoes need room to grow, so container size is important.

• Use containers at least 40–50 cm deep
• Grow bags, large pots, tubs or bins all work well
• Make sure there are drainage holes at the base
• Dark-coloured containers retain warmth, which can help early growth

Avoid shallow containers, as they will limit tuber development.

When and Where to plant Potatoes in Bags

• Choose a sunny position
• Plant the potatoes in late winter to mid spring. The exact time will depend on your climate zone as well as the type of potatoes you are growing.

Soil and Planting Preparation

Good soil is essential for healthy potato growth.

• Use a quality potting mix, not garden soil
• Mix in compost or well-rotted organic matter
• Avoid fresh manure, which can damage developing tubers

Fill the container about one-third full with soil before planting.

Planting Potatoes in Containers

1. Place seed potatoes on the soil surface, with shoots facing upwards
2. Space them evenly — usually 2 to 3 potatoes per large container
3. Cover with 10–15 cm of potting mix
4. Water well after planting

As the plants grow, continue to add soil to cover the stems. This process is known as hilling and helps produce more potatoes.

Position and Sunlight

Potatoes grow best in:

• Full sun (at least 6 hours per day)
• A sheltered position away from strong winds

Containers can be moved if needed to improve light exposure.

Watering and Feeding

Consistent watering is important, especially in containers.

• Keep soil moist but not waterlogged
• Water more frequently in warm weather
• Do not allow containers to dry out completely

Feed plants every few weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser once growth is established.

Step By Step – How to grow potatoes in bags

Step By Step

1. Start with around 4 inches (10cm) of soil in the bottom of the bag.
2. Place the potatoes around 4 – 6 (10 – 15 cm) inches apart.
3. Cover them with 2 inches (5cm) of soil
4. Water in just a little.
5. Once the potatoes shoot, add some more soil, covering up the lower part of the stem. You can use straw, compost or any weed free material.
6. A little low nitrogen liquid fertiliser every 4 weeks can be beneficial.
7. Keep adding soil or straw, always with a layer of soil on top of the straw.
8. As the plants begin to die back, foliage dies back and goes yellow  in late summer to autumn the potatoes are ready to harvest.
9. Simply lift the bags off the potatoes as the bottom will usually have rotted to.If not, just split the bag open with a sharp knife.

When and How to Harvest

Potatoes are ready to harvest when:

• The plants flower and begin to die back
• Leaves turn yellow and dry

To harvest, tip the container onto a tarp or into a wheelbarrow and gently remove the soil. This method makes harvesting clean and easy, with minimal damage to the potatoes.

The old bags can be composted or added to the bottom of next years bags for extra strength.

Demonstration Video

Common Problems to Watch For

• Poor drainage can cause rotting
• Inconsistent watering may result in small or misshapen potatoes
• Overcrowding reduces yield

Using clean containers and fresh potting mix each season helps prevent disease problems.

Final Tips for Success

• Choose certified seed potatoes for best results
• Avoid growing potatoes in the same containers year after year without refreshing the soil
• Store harvested potatoes in a cool, dark place

Growing potatoes in bags or containers is a simple and rewarding way to enjoy fresh, home-grown produce, even in limited spaces.