Comparing Grow Boxes: Garden Patch Grow Box vs. EarthBox

Hey all! Real Farmer Jeff here.

I love grow boxes and have used them heavily for years! My grandparents were the first ones to introduce them to me many years ago. They’re especially valuable for beginner gardeners, small space gardeners, people growing on decks or concrete slabs, and anyone who wants strong results without needing to constantly babysit their plants (so pretty much… everyone, right?).

In this blog post, I use the term grow box to describe what are more technically called self-watering containers or sub irrigated planters (SIPs).

Two of the most popular grow boxes are from Garden Patch GrowBox and EarthBox. I wanted to test out the EarthBox because this winter it appeared that the similar Garden Patch GrowBox (which I have used for years) was going out of business. I have heard good things about the EarthBox, so I wanted to see for myself and fill you guys in on the results.

Both systems use a similar self-watering design, however they the differ in several notable ways (which I’ll touch on, of course). Let’s get started!

How Grow Boxes Work

Grow Boxes include a built-in water reservoir at the bottom of the container that supplies moisture to the soil above. You only need to fill the reservoir with water instead of directly watering the soil. This means that you can experience great results without as much pressure to water daily! Note in the hottest part of summer, watering daily may still be necessary if your plants are large and thirsty. However, at the beginning of the season you might only need to water weekly.

Moisture moves upward through the potting mix similar to how a straw pulls liquid upward. Plants take up water at their own pace, which keeps roots evenly moist without becoming waterlogged.

Grow boxes often include mulch pads and so you also don’t have to worry as much about weeding!

Benefits of this design:

• Less frequent watering
• Healthier root systems
• Reduced evaporation
• Less frequent weeding
• More consistent plant growth

Who Grow Boxes Are Best For

Grow boxes are a great fit for many gardeners, but they really shine for:

• New gardeners learning the basics
• Small space and patio gardeners
• Growing on decks, balconies, or concrete slabs
• Busy gardeners or hot climates
• Heavy feeding crops like tomatoes and peppers

Pros and Cons: Earthbox and Garden Patch GrowBox

EarthBox:

Pros	Cons
One-piece construction that feels very sturdy	Smaller three-gallon water reservoir (instead of four-gallon)
Components on the interior seem harder to break	Water level is not visible from the outside
Option to attach wheels for easier moving around	Mulch covering blocks rain
Some bundles include potting mix	Accessories add to the total cost
More box designs for herbs, root vegetables, etc.

Garden Patch GrowBox:

Pros	Cons
Larger four-gallon water reservoir	Multi-piece construction requires more care when moving
Water level is visible from the outside	No built-in wheels
Mulch patch allows rainwater to enter
Mulch patch has convenient planting guide
Slightly cheaper price point

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	EarthBox	Garden Patch GrowBox
Construction:	One piece (more durable)	Multi-piece – harder to carry/transport
Mobility:	Wheels attachment option	No wheels
Trellis:	TBD (Will test soon)	Very sturdy
Mulch Patch:	Included option	Included option
Water Reservoir:	Three gallons	Four gallons
Water Visibility:	Not visible	Visible from outside
Rain Contribution:	Minimal	Yes
Best fit:	Durability and mobility	Water monitoring and capacity

Both the EarthBox and the Garden Patch Grow Box are excellent grow boxes built
around the same self watering concept. I’m excited to test out the EarthBox this season
to have more details about which container I would recommend above the other.

I will have more definitive side by side results after this growing season, but for now,
either option is a solid choice for easier, more forgiving container gardening.