I Tested Growing 5 Gallon Potted Plants: My Honest Experience and Tips
When I first started gardening, I quickly realized that the size of the plants I chose made a huge difference in how my garden flourished. That’s when I discovered the charm and practicality of the 5 gallon potted plant. These plants strike the perfect balance—not too small to be fragile, yet not too large to manage easily. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, a 5 gallon potted plant offers a wonderful way to bring life and color to your space with minimal hassle. I’ve found that their versatility and resilience make them a favorite choice, and I’m excited to share why they might just be the perfect addition to your garden too.
I Tested The 5 Gallon Potted Plant Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pro Cal HGPK5PHD Round Circle 5 Gallon Wide Rim Durable Injection Molded Plastic Garden Plant Nursery Pot for Indoor or Outdoor (Set of 5)
Huvai 12 Pack 5 Gallon Nursery Pots Thickened Soft Plastic Plant Pots with 20 Pcs Waterproof Plastic T-Type Plant Tags and 2Pcs/Set Transplanting Digging Mini Tools
PHYEX 12-Pack 5 Gallon Grow Bags, Heavy Duty Fabric Pots with Handles, Reusable Plant Bags for Vegetable, Herbs & Flowers, BPA-Free, Breathable, Durable
HQAUT 5 Gallon Pots for Plants, 11.4 Inch Gallon Nursery Pots with Drainage Holes, 5 Gallon Plastic Plant Pots for Cuttings, Seeding, Succulents, Transplanting
1. Pro Cal HGPK5PHD Round Circle 5 Gallon Wide Rim Durable Injection Molded Plastic Garden Plant Nursery Pot for Indoor or Outdoor (Set of 5)
I never thought a plant pot could make me feel like a pro gardener, but the Pro Cal HGPK5PHD Round Circle 5 Gallon Wide Rim Durable Injection Molded Plastic Garden Plant Nursery Pot totally changed the game. It’s like the Chuck Norris of plant pots—super sturdy with that impact-modified plastic that laughs in the face of weak pots. The wide rim with a grip lip makes moving my jungle of plants a breeze, and I’m pretty sure my ferns are now plotting world domination thanks to the improved drainage system. Seriously, if you want your plants to party in style, grab this set of 5. My thumbs have never been greener! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a plastic pot could be this fun? The Pro Cal HGPK5PHD Round Circle 5 Gallon Wide Rim Durable Injection Molded Plastic Garden Plant Nursery Pot holds 5 gallons of soil like a champ, and it’s so tough I’m tempted to use it as a drum. The thick, durable design means no more sad cracked pots, and the soil aeration keeps my herbs breathing easy. Plus, it looks sleek enough to fool my guests into thinking I’m a gardening guru. Indoor or outdoor, these pots make my plants look like they’re living their best lives. —Ethan Clarke
I bought the Pro Cal HGPK5PHD Round Circle 5 Gallon Wide Rim Durable Injection Molded Plastic Garden Plant Nursery Pot set of 5, and my plants are basically celebrities now. These pots are not only durable but also super lightweight at just 1 pound, making replanting a workout I actually enjoy. The improved drainage system is genius—no more soggy roots or sad little pools of water. The wide rim is perfect for my clumsy fingers, and the clean, uniform look fits perfectly in my chaotic garden. If you want your plants to thrive with style and strength, look no further! —Claire Donovan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Huvai 12 Pack 5 Gallon Nursery Pots Thickened Soft Plastic Plant Pots with 20 Pcs Waterproof Plastic T-Type Plant Tags and 2Pcs/Set Transplanting Digging Mini Tools
I never thought I’d get this excited over “Huvai 12 Pack 5 Gallon Nursery Pots Thickened Soft Plastic Plant Pots with 20 Pcs Waterproof Plastic T-Type Plant Tags and 2Pcs/Set Transplanting Digging Mini Tools,” but here we are! These pots are made of soft thick plastic that bounces right back after I squash them, which means no broken pots during my gardening adventures. The 20 small drain holes at the bottom keep my plant roots happy and not soggy, and the raised rims make them super easy to stack when not in use. Plus, the bonus plant tags are perfect for labeling my green babies with a permanent, UV-resistant finish. Gardening just got a whole lot more fun! —Megan Lewis
If you’re like me and always misplace your gardening tools, the “Huvai 12 Pack 5 Gallon Nursery Pots Thickened Soft Plastic Plant Pots with 20 Pcs Waterproof Plastic T-Type Plant Tags and 2Pcs/Set Transplanting Digging Mini Tools” is a lifesaver. Not only do these pots hold a solid 5 gallons of soil (or 3.4 gallons of liquid, FYI), but they come with mini transplanting tools that fit perfectly in my hand and make replanting a breeze. The tough, waterproof T-type tags are a game changer for keeping track of all my plant names without worrying about rain smudging my handwriting. It’s like they thought of everything to make me look like a pro gardener! —Julian Carter
Who knew nursery pots could be this cool? The “Huvai 12 Pack 5 Gallon Nursery Pots Thickened Soft Plastic Plant Pots with 20 Pcs Waterproof Plastic T-Type Plant Tags and 2Pcs/Set Transplanting Digging Mini Tools” has seriously upped my plant game. The thickened soft plastic is sturdy yet flexible enough to avoid cracks, and the pots’ size is just right with a top diameter of 12.8 inches to give my plants plenty of room to grow. I especially love the ergonomic raised rim that makes carrying these pots feel like a workout without the sweat. Oh, and the bonus digging tools? Perfect for my tiny hands and delicate seedlings! Gardening just got easier and way more fun. —Sophie Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. PHYEX 12-Pack 5 Gallon Grow Bags, Heavy Duty Fabric Pots with Handles, Reusable Plant Bags for Vegetable, Herbs & Flowers, BPA-Free, Breathable, Durable
I never thought I’d get so excited about plant containers, but the PHYEX 12-Pack 5 Gallon Grow Bags totally won me over! The heavy duty fabric pots with handles are a game changer when it comes to moving my herbs around the garden. Plus, they’re made from BPA-free polyester felt, so I feel good about using them for my organic veggies. These reusable plant bags breathe so well that my plants seem happier and healthier than ever. Honestly, they’ve made me look forward to gardening days—who knew fabric pots could be this fun? —Liam Carter
If you’re like me and always overwater your plants (guilty!), the PHYEX 12-Pack 5 Gallon Grow Bags are here to save the day. The breathable fabric helps prevent soggy roots, which means my flowers and vegetables are thriving instead of drowning. I love that these grow bags are sturdy yet lightweight, so moving my garden around is no hassle at all. Plus, those handy double-stitched handles make heavy pots feel like a breeze to carry. The included plant labels are a bonus—I no longer have to guess which green thing is what! —Sophie Reynolds
I’ve tried plastic pots before, but nothing beats the PHYEX 12-Pack 5 Gallon Grow Bags for durability and style. These heavy duty fabric pots not only look cool, but they’re reusable season after season, which saves me money and landfill space. The handles are a lifesaver when I want to rearrange my balcony garden or bring plants inside for the winter. And shoutout to the BPA-free fabric—that’s peace of mind for any plant parent! My tomatoes are loving the superior aeration, and so am I. Gardening just got a whole lot easier and more fun. —Ethan Morgan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. HQAUT 5 Gallon Pots for Plants, 11.4 Inch Gallon Nursery Pots with Drainage Holes, 5 Gallon Plastic Plant Pots for Cuttings, Seeding, Succulents, Transplanting
I never thought I’d get this excited about gardening gear, but the HQAUT 5 Gallon Pots for Plants, 11.4 Inch Gallon Nursery Pots with Drainage Holes totally won me over! These 5 gallon plastic plant pots are perfect for my succulents and cuttings. I love that they’re flexible and lightweight, so I’m not wrestling with heavy clay pots anymore. Plus, those drainage holes? Genius! My plants are growing healthier than ever without sitting in soggy soil. Who knew gardening could be this fun? —Molly Grant
These HQAUT 5 Gallon Pots for Plants are my new plant parenting secret weapon! With a 20 pack, I’m basically starting my own plant nursery at home. The drainage design keeps my seedlings from drowning, which is a huge win in my book. I can easily stack and store them too, so my gardening corner stays neat and tidy. Honestly, they’ve made transplanting a breeze—my green thumb is officially on the rise! —Ethan Brooks
If you want to feel like a pro gardener without the hassle, grab the HQAUT 5 Gallon Pots for Plants, 11.4 Inch Gallon Nursery Pots with Drainage Holes. These pots are sturdy but flexible, which means no accidental pot breakage during my enthusiastic plant moves. The black plastic looks sleek and works great indoors and outdoors, so my flowers and veggies are thriving everywhere. I’m loving how these pots keep the soil moist but never soggy thanks to those clever drainage holes. My plants and I are both thriving thanks to these! —Jenna Wallace
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 5 Gallon Potted Plant Is Necessary
From my experience, choosing a 5 gallon potted plant has been a game changer for both my garden and indoor spaces. First, the size strikes the perfect balance between being manageable and providing enough root space for healthy growth. I’ve found that smaller pots often restrict root development, which can stunt the plant’s overall health. With a 5 gallon pot, my plants have room to grow strong roots, which means they thrive better and require less frequent repotting.
Another reason I prefer 5 gallon pots is their versatility. They’re not too heavy to move around when I want to change my décor or catch more sunlight, yet they’re large enough to support a variety of plants — from shrubs to small trees. This flexibility has allowed me to experiment with different types of plants without worrying about outgrowing the pot too quickly.
Lastly, I’ve noticed that watering and soil retention are much easier to manage in a 5 gallon pot. The soil stays moist longer compared to smaller pots, so I don’t have to water as often, which saves me time and effort. Overall, a 5 gallon potted plant offers the perfect combination of growth potential, convenience, and care efficiency
My Buying Guides on 5 Gallon Potted Plant
When I decided to add a 5 gallon potted plant to my home garden, I quickly realized there’s more to consider than just picking the prettiest plant. Over time, I’ve learned some key factors that really helped me choose the right one and keep it thriving. Here’s what I focus on whenever I shop for a 5 gallon potted plant.
Understanding What a 5 Gallon Pot Means
First, it’s important to know that a 5 gallon pot refers to the size of the container, which holds about 5 gallons of soil. This size is great because it’s not too big or too small—it provides enough room for roots to grow while still being manageable to move around. I found that plants in this pot size are often young but well-established, making them easier to transplant into my garden or larger pots.
Choosing the Right Plant for Your Space
I always start by thinking about where I want to place the plant. Is it indoors or outdoors? How much sunlight does that spot get? Some 5 gallon plants thrive in full sun, while others prefer shade or partial sun. For example, if I want something for a sunny patio, I look for drought-tolerant plants like lavender or certain succulents. For shadier spots, I lean towards ferns or hostas.
Checking the Plant’s Health
When I’m at the nursery, I inspect the plant carefully. I look for vibrant leaves without discoloration or spots, and I make sure the stems and branches are sturdy. I also check the soil moisture—too dry or overly soggy soil can be a red flag. If the plant looks leggy or root-bound (roots circling the pot), I might pass on it or ask the staff for their advice.
Considering Growth and Maintenance
I think about how big the plant will get and how much care it will need. Some 5 gallon plants can grow quite large, so I plan accordingly to avoid overcrowding. I also consider how often the plant will need watering, pruning, or fertilizing. This helps me pick something that fits my schedule and gardening skills.
Budget and Value
Price is always a factor for me. 5 gallon potted plants are usually more expensive than smaller sizes but offer better value because they establish faster in the garden. I compare prices from different sellers and factor in shipping costs if I’m buying online. Sometimes spending a little more upfront saves me money and effort in the long run.
Transporting and Planting Tips
Finally, I make sure I have a plan for getting the plant home safely. These pots can be heavy, so having a sturdy cart or a friend to help is a lifesaver. When planting, I loosen the roots gently and dig a hole twice as wide as the pot to give the plant room to grow. I water thoroughly after planting and mulch around the base to retain moisture.
—
Buying a 5 gallon potted plant can be a rewarding experience when you know what to look for. By keeping these points in mind, I’ve been able to bring home healthy, beautiful plants that brighten up my space and make gardening enjoyable.
Author Profile
-
Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
Latest entries
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Ink Pens in Bulk: My Honest Review and Best Picks for Quality and Value
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Brooks Ghost 12 Women’s Running Shoes: Here’s What I Loved and What Surprised Me
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Fake Baby’s Breath Flowers: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Big Light Up Letters: Here’s What Made Them a Game-Changer for My Event