Comparison: Best All Purpose Container Mix (Updated | Nov 11th)

Consider how many containers you plan to fill and how often you garden. Larger bags like the 16 qt. (B07LCGHB85) give the lowest cost per quart, while 6 qt. bags (B07LCGPTFK) are convenient for occasional gardeners. Multi‑packs (3‑pack or 5‑pack) provide a middle ground, offering bulk savings without the storage bulk of a 16 qt. bag.

All versions contain the same organic formula with aged compost, so plant nutrition and yield are identical. The only differences are packaging and price per unit; multi‑packs often have a slight discount per bag. Choose based on your storage space and whether you prefer to buy all at once or replenish gradually.

The mix is OMRI‑listed and formulated with organic and natural ingredients like aged compost, meaning it meets strict organic standards. This is important for gardeners who avoid synthetic fertilizers or have organic certification requirements. The organic blend still delivers the same “twice the bounty” claim as conventional Miracle‑Gro mixes.

Yes, the product is designed for all‑purpose container gardening, whether on a balcony, patio, or garden bed. Its nutrient release lasts up to three months, supporting continuous growth in any environment. Just ensure proper drainage and watering according to the plant’s needs.

Leaktite’s 1‑pint calibrated containers are pre‑filled, offering convenience for small‑scale planting, but they provide less volume per purchase. Miracle‑Gro’s bulk mixes give greater flexibility to fill any pot size and usually deliver a lower cost per unit of soil. If you need many pots or larger containers, Miracle‑Gro is the more economical choice.

The 5‑pack bundles five 6 qt. bags, which typically reduces the per‑bag price compared to buying a single 6 qt. bag. This is a good option for gardeners who want a steady supply without committing to a 16 qt. bulk purchase, balancing storage space and savings.

Some formulations are restricted to specific states due to local regulations; the California‑only version may have a different labeling or certification. If you live outside those regions, choose a universally available product such as the standard 6 qt. or 16 qt. mixes. Always check the product description for regional restrictions before purchasing.

Shake ’N Feed (B01N4GLFK8) is a granular plant food that you apply to soil, providing nutrients for up to three months, whereas the Performance Organics mix is a pre‑fertilized potting soil that feeds plants from the start. Shake ’N Feed works for both in‑ground and container plants, offering flexibility if you already have a preferred soil. For a one‑step solution, the organic container mix is simpler, but Shake ’N Feed can boost nutrition in existing soils.