A true 5 gallon pot holds 5 US gallons, which is 18.9 litres or 0.67 cubic feet, when filled to the rim. Leave a gap below the rim and allow for settling, and plan on about 0.7 cubic feet (19 to 20 litres) of soil per pot.
Pots sold as “5 gallon” are often smaller in practice, and a tall, narrow bucket holds a different amount than a wide nursery pot. Enter your own measurements above for a closer number.
Soil for several 5 gallon pots
| Pots | Cubic feet | Litres |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0.7 | 20 |
| 2 | 1.4 | 40 |
| 4 | 2.8 | 79 |
| 6 | 4.2 | 119 |
| 10 | 7.0 | 198 |
Based on 0.7 cubic feet per pot, including settling.
Where to buy
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Get 5 gallon grow bags at Amazon
These grow bags are a great option too! Get 5 gallon pots at Amazon
Check out these very nice pots, and saucers are included!
These grow bags are a great option too! Get 5 gallon pots at Amazon
Check out these very nice pots, and saucers are included!
What grows in a 5 gallon pot
Peppers, cucumbers, eggplant and cabbage are commonly given 5 gallons per plant. Tomatoes also do well in this size if you choose a determinate or dwarf variety.
Filling tips
- Use drainage holes and a light potting mix, not soil from the ground.
- Fill, water well, then top up once the mix settles.
- Mix before filling: about half potting mix, 30% coco coir or peat-free fibre, and 20% perlite.