Comparison: Best Organic Potting Compost (Updated | Nov 11th)
Not all mixes are created equal, and when you’re going organic, the right blend can make all the difference. Whether you’re growing herbs on a windowsill or tomatoes in a backyard container, let’s find the perfect organic match for your green dreams.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for pure plant-based: Old Potters Organic Compost – Plant Based Potting Soil – Home
- Best for quick-release fertilizer: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for pet-safe indoor: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA
- Best for yield-boosting soil: Organic Mechanics Premium Blend Potting Soil
- Best for all-purpose topsoil: Michigan Peat 40 Pound Bag Garden Magic Organic Planting Potting Top Soil Blend Mix for Indoor and Outdoor Gardening and Landscapes
- Best for reusable container mix: Organic Mechanics Container Blend Potting Soil
- Best for carbonboost biochar: Wakefield Premium Biochar Blend – Organic Potting Soil for Vegetables
- Best for space-saving expandable: Compressed Organic Potting Soil for Garden
- Best for lobster-enriched compost: Espoma Organic Land and Sea Gourmet Compost with Lobster & Crab Meal; the Best of Both Worlds! Gourmet Planting Mix for Vegetables
- Best for large-scale yield: Organic Mechanics Premium Blend Potting Soil
Product Comparison: Best Organic Potting Compost
Pure Plant-Based
Old Potters Organic Compost – Plant Based Potting Soil – Home, Garden Fertilizer – Complete Food – Boosts Plant Growth – Use for Indoor and Outdoor Farming ~25 lbs (24 Quarts)
Old Potters
- 100% Organic & Chemical-Free – Made from natural plant-based materials, safe for all types of gardens.
- Boosts Soil Health – Improves aeration, water retention, and nutrient availability for stronger plants.
- Eco-Friendly & Sustainable – Supports sustainable gardening by recycling organic waste into rich compost.
Quick-Release Fertilizer
Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix, for Outdoor Container Plants, Contains Quick-Release Natural Fertilizer, OMRI Listed, 16 qt.
Miracle-Gro
- Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix contains a quick-release natural fertilizer and also feeds plants for up to 2 months
- This potting mix is made with responsibly sourced peat (one hundred percent of peat sourced from certified producers)
- Use this organic potting mix with all types of outdoor container plants, including flowers, vegetables, herbs, annuals, and perennials
- To plant in pots, fill the container partially full with potting mix, place the plant in the pot after loosening the root ball, cover with more mix and water thoroughly
- One 16 qt. bag of Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix fills one 12-inch container (amounts may vary based on the size of the root ball)
Pet-Safe Indoor
Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA
Back to the Roots
- FORMULATED FOR INDOOR USE: Our Potting Mix contains organic yucca extract that aids in retaining moisture in the soil whichs keeps your indoor plants happy and healthy
- ROOT-BOOSTING MYCORRHIZAE: This beneficial soil component provides your plants with a natural, organic way to boost their root development and nutrient uptake
- ORGANIC AND PEAT-FREE: Our indoor potting mix helps reduce greenhouse emissions and environmental impact, making it a responsible choice for conscious consumers
- BALANCING DOLOMITIC LIMESTONE: Balances the alkalinity and acidity levels of the soil, which ensures that your plants receive the necessary nutrients from the potting mix to grow healthy and strong
- SAFE FOR PETS AND PEOPLE: Made without bark or compost, this potting mix is less prone to indoor gnats and pests, making it a worry-free option for your indoor gardening needs
Yield-Boosting Soil
Organic Mechanics Premium Blend Potting Soil, 8 qt – Moisture-Retentive, Peat-Free, Compost – Enriched Mix with Worm Castings & Perlite for Houseplants, Annuals, Veggies & Tropical Plants
Organic Mechanics
- Moisture-Retentive, Peat-Free Potting Soil – Retains moisture longer than peat-based soils, reducing watering frequency and promoting strong root development
- Ideal for Houseplants, Flowers, Annuals, and Tropicals – Perfect for small to mid sized containers, transplants, window boxes, small-space gardening, and for any plant that wants better moisture-retention
- Rich in Organic Matter for Healthy, Thriving Plants – Contains compost, aged pine bark, coconut coir, perlite, and worm castings. Encourages beneficial biology in the root zone for a happier, healthier plant!
- Harvest Twice as Much – Research trials show that this soil can produce up to twice the tomato yield compared to conventional potting soil
- Fertilizer-Friendly Blend – Combine with fertilizer at planting time for optimal plant performance, growth, and yield
All-Purpose Topsoil
Michigan Peat 40 Pound Bag Garden Magic Organic Planting Potting Top Soil Blend Mix for Indoor and Outdoor Gardening and Landscapes, White
Garden Magic
- Ready-to-Use for All Planting Needs: This general-purpose potting mix is ready to use out of the bag, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor planting without any additional preparation
- Optimal Moisture Retention & Drainage: Designed to allow excess water to drain effectively while retaining moisture, promoting healthy plant growth during dry seasons
- High-Quality Soil Blend: Features a dark blend of reed sedge peat, perlite, and sand, offering the best conditions for plant health and soil structure
- Perfect for All Gardeners: Developed for both new and experienced home gardeners, this soil mix enhances plant growth in various environments and gardening projects
- Improves Soil Quality: Ideal for loosening heavy clay soils and enhancing moisture in light soils, making it perfect for use as a top dressing to fill holes in lawns and garden beds
Reusable Container Mix
Organic Mechanics Container Blend Potting Soil, 16 qt – All-Purpose, Peat-Free, Well-Drained Blend with Compost, Rice Hulls, and Worm Castings for Growing Annuals, Perennials, Woody Plants
Organic Mechanics
- All-Purpose Container Blend – Organic potting soil for repotting houseplants, fast-growing annuals and filling containers
- Balanced Moisture and Drainage – Retains moisture while draining well – ideal for flowers, vegetables, and woody plants that need consistent, healthy root support
- Premium Natural Ingredients – Contains compost, aged pine bark, coir, worm castings, and rice hulls for improved aeration, structure, and nutrient delivery
- Reusable & Long-Lasting – Does not break down as quickly as peat-based mixes, allowing you to reuse it – simply fluff the mix back up, remove any large root balls, refresh with fertilizer, and replant
- Fertilizer-Friendly Blend – Combine with fertilizer at planting time for optimal plant performance, growth, and yield
CarbonBoost Biochar
Wakefield Premium Biochar Blend – Organic Potting Soil for Vegetables, Tomatoes & Gardens – Potting Mix Enriched with Humic Acid & CarbonBoost – Versatile Top Soil for Indoor & Outdoor Plants-4quarts
Wakefield Biochar
- Engineered for Superior Garden Performance: Wakefield’s premium potting soil with biochar, for outdoor plants with Humic acid, and our proprietary CarbonBoost technology, delivering optimal conditions for vibrant, sustained growth. Ideal for everything from raised beds to patio containers, this advanced formula supports healthy root systems whether you’re cultivating juicy tomatoes or leafy herbs.
- Enhanced Root Health and Nutrient Absorption: Formulated as a powerful soil amendment and effective soil conditioner, this advanced biochar blend supports healthy microbial ecosystems for optimized nutrient uptake and improved aeration. Whether you’re cultivating hardy vegetables or delicate herbs, it strengthens root development and enhances long-term fertility. Perfect for gardeners looking to elevate top soil for garden quality or enrich topsoil for vegetable garden beds.
- Smart Water Retention Meets Drainage Balance: Designed with advanced hydration control, this organic vegetable soil helps maintain ideal moisture levels while preventing overwatering. A great fit for container gardening and raised beds, it also works as a reliable soil mixer for sensitive environments. Use it indoor or outdoor, this blend functions beautifully as potting soil for plants.
- 100% Organic, Eco-Conscious Formula: Crafted without synthetic additives, this blend provides a sustainable, chemical-free base for clean cultivation. Ideal for anyone growing vegetables and herbs at home. It performs exceptionally as a gardening soil for vegetables and supports vibrant harvests. Whether you’re using it as a nutrient-rich indoor soil potting mix or as dependable outdoor potting soil, it delivers lasting results.
- Versatile, All-Purpose Growing Medium: From raised beds to balcony containers, this blend adapts effortlessly to diverse planting styles. Whether you’re cultivating with potting soil for outdoor plants, enriching topsoil in open plots, or managing delicate herbs indoors, Wakefield delivers consistent performance. It’s equally effective as indoor plant soil and supports lush growth in compact setups requiring high-quality indoor potting soil.
Space-Saving Expandable
Compressed Organic Potting Soil for Garden, Plants & Vegetables – Expands 4x When Mixed with Water – Indoor or Outdoor Use – Plant Food Mix Derived from Natural Coconut Coir & Worm Castings Fertilizer
Organic Plant Magic
- A LITTLE DOES A LOT – Easy to use compressed soil granules quickly expand up to 4X and make up to 3 gallons of soil. Light, compact, easy to carry, resealable bag saves space.
- NOURISH & SEE THEM FLOURISH – Packed with every essential nutrient plus 55+ trace minerals, this concentrated super soil feeds and grows strong beautiful vibrant plants better than ever!
- FAST ACTING & LONG LASTING – Easy to wet and stays moist 3X longer. Living soil gets water, air and nutrients to roots on demand. Perfect for all seeds, starts, transplants, containers, raised beds and gardens!
- TRULY ORGANIC YOU CAN TRUST – 100% natural ground coconut coir, worm castings, compost, humic acids, amino acids, kelp and beneficial GroBiotics including mycorrhizae give your soil, flower, vegetable, herb, fruit, tree, shrub, raised bed, outdoor or indoor potted house plants and more a super-boost.
- EASY to USE – Just add water 1:1 to compressed soil to expand up to 4X. Use 1 tsp for small seeds, 1 tbsp for large seeds, 1/4 cup per seedling, 1 cup per small plant, and 4 cups per gallon plant. Use expanded soil straight or blend 1:2 with other soil. Prevents overwatering, re-wets easily, and stays moist 3X longer. As mulch or top dress, apply 1/4 inch expanded soil or spread compressed soil and water. A 2 lb bag covers up to 20 sq ft.
Lobster-Enriched Compost
Espoma Organic Land and Sea Gourmet Compost with Lobster & Crab Meal; the Best of Both Worlds! Gourmet Planting Mix for Vegetables, Flowers, Trees & Shrubs. 1 Cubic Foot Bag
Espoma
- FOR USE: Use when planting or transplanting to improve native soil. Add to planters and window boxes to invigorate container mixes
- CONTAINS: This organic soil mix for all plants & vegetables is a rich blend of natural and organic ingredients enriched with both lobster and crab meal
- MYCO-TONE: A proprietary blend of endo & ecto mycorrhizae
- WHEN TO USE: Any time planting in the garden or in containers, whether starting a new plant or transplanting
- ORGANIC GARDENING: Contains a rich blend of only the finest natural ingredients. No synthetic plant foods or chemicals are used
Large-Scale Yield
Organic Mechanics Premium Blend Potting Soil, 1 Cu Ft – Moisture-Retentive, Peat-Free, Compost – Enriched Mix with Worm Castings & Perlite for Houseplants, Annuals, Veggies & Tropical Plants
Organic Mechanics
- Moisture-Retentive, Peat-Free Potting Soil – Retains moisture longer than peat-based soils, reducing watering frequency and promoting strong root development
- Ideal for Houseplants, Flowers, Annuals, and Tropicals – Perfect for small to mid sized containers, transplants, window boxes, small-space gardening, and for any plant that wants better moisture-retention
- Rich in Organic Matter for Healthy, Thriving Plants – Contains compost, aged pine bark, coconut coir, perlite, and worm castings. Encourages beneficial biology in the root zone for a happier, healthier plant!
- Harvest Twice as Much – Research trials show that this soil can produce up to twice the tomato yield compared to conventional potting soil
- Fertilizer-Friendly Blend – Combine with fertilizer at planting time for optimal plant performance, growth, and yield
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What key factors should I consider when choosing an organic potting compost?
Look for the source of organic materials, such as plant‑based waste or peat, and whether the mix is peat‑free for environmental reasons. Check for added nutrients like natural fertilizers, mycorrhizae, or biochar that boost root health. Also consider moisture retention, drainage, and any pet‑safe claims to match your garden’s needs.
How does Old Potters Organic Compost differ from Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor Mix?
Old Potters uses 100 % plant‑based, chemical‑free ingredients that focus on soil health and sustainability, while Miracle‑Gro blends responsibly sourced peat with a quick‑release natural fertilizer for up to two months. The former is ideal for gardeners seeking a fully organic, waste‑recycling solution, whereas the latter offers a convenient, ready‑to‑use mix with a built‑in feeding schedule.
Is a peat‑free mix like Back to the Roots Indoor Potting Mix better for indoor plants?
Peat‑free mixes reduce greenhouse gas emissions and often include moisture‑retaining additives like yucca extract, which keep indoor plants hydrated longer. Back to the Roots also adds mycorrhizal fungi to enhance root development and is formulated to be pet‑safe and less prone to gnats. For indoor environments, these benefits typically outweigh the traditional water‑holding capacity of peat.
Which product offers the best value for large‑scale outdoor container gardening?
Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix provides a clear coverage guideline—one 16 qt bag fills a 12‑inch container—making budgeting easier for many pots. However, Organic Mechanics Premium Blend (8 qt) delivers higher yields, especially for tomatoes, and can be reused, which may lower long‑term costs. Evaluate the number of containers you need and compare per‑container fill rates to decide the most economical option.
Do mixes with added biochar, like Wakefield Premium Biochar Blend, provide noticeable benefits?
Biochar improves soil structure, enhances water retention, and supports beneficial microbes, leading to stronger root systems and higher nutrient uptake. Wakefield’s formula also includes humic acid and CarbonBoost technology for sustained fertility, making it a strong choice for both raised beds and container gardens. Gardeners often notice healthier, more vigorous growth, especially with heavy‑feeding crops.
How important is the inclusion of mycorrhizal fungi in a potting soil?
Mycorrhizae form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, extending the root network and improving access to water and nutrients. Several products, such as Back to the Roots and Espoma Land and Sea Gourmet Compost, list mycorrhizal blends, which can lead to faster establishment and better stress tolerance. For new plantings or repotting, a soil with mycorrhizae adds measurable value.
Can compressed soil like the Compressed Organic Potting Soil be a space‑saving alternative?
Compressed granules expand up to four times when watered, providing a lightweight, portable option that’s easy to store and transport. The blend includes coconut coir, worm castings, and humic acids, delivering a full nutrient profile in a compact form. It’s especially useful for gardeners with limited storage or for on‑the‑go planting projects.