Comparison: Best Potting Mix For House Plants (Updated | Nov 11th)
Not all soils are created equal, and choosing the right one can mean the difference between a lush jungle and a sad, droopy corner. In this guide, we’ll break down the best potting mixes for houseplants, comparing ingredients, drainage, and value so you can give your leafy friends the perfect home—no guesswork needed.
- Best for fertilized indoor mix: Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix: Fertilized
- Best for 6-month feeding: Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for organic root boost: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA
- Best for moisture control: Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix
- Best for organic water guard: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for all-purpose grow: Miracle-Gro Potting Mix
- Best for dual-use boost: Miracle-Gro Potting Mix
- Best for gnat-resistant mix: Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix – Fertilized Soil
- Best for living soil formula: Rosy Soil Indoor Potting Soil for House Plants – Organic Potting Soil Mix for Indoor Plants – Enriched w/Root-Boosting Biochar for Foliage Plants
- Best for organic outdoor mix: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
Product Comparison: Best Potting Mix For House Plants
Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix: Fertilized, Perlite Soil for Indoor Gardening, Designed to Be Less Prone to Gnats, 4 qt.
- Growing indoors is easy under the right conditions; Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix combines key elements plants need to thrive
- Recommended for growing beautiful indoor houseplant varieties like Pothos, Spider Plants, Monstera, Philodendron, English Ivy and more
- This indoor plant soil is less prone to gnats, thanks to the combination of perlite, sphagnum and peat moss that’s just right
- Certified by the Mulch & Soil Council as a quality product in compliance with industry standards
- A single 4-qt bag fills an 8-inch container; for even more spectacular results, start regular feedings with Miracle-Gro Plant Food 30 days after planting
Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, Blended for a Variety of Houseplants, Feeds for up to 6 Months, 16 qt., 2-Pack
- Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix feeds houseplants for up to 6 months and is designed to be less prone to gnats (contains no compost or bark, which are known to shelter fungus gnats)
- This potting mix contains coconut coir, which holds and releases water and helps soil re-wet
- Where to use: Blended for a wide variety of indoor container plants, including climbing, foliage, flowering, and tropical plants
- How to use: To use, fill a container about 1/3 full with potting mix; add more mix after placing your plant in the pot
- What’s included: This bundles includes two 16 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, each able to fill one 12-inch containers (exact amount may vary based on the root ball size)
Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA
- 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
Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix, For Container Plants, Protects against Over- and Under-Watering, 8 qt., 2-Pack
- Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix feeds plants for up to 6 months and Grows Plants Twice As Big! (vs unfed plants)
- This potting medium protects against over and under watering; also absorbs up to 33% more water than basic potting soil* with exclusive AquaCoir Formula (*soil that does not contain sphagnum peat moss, coir, and wetting agent)
- Use this gardening product with all types of container plants, including flowers, vegetables, annuals, perennials, and shrubs
- To use this potting soil, fill a container about 1/3 full with potting mix; place your plant in the pot and cover with more mix
- This bundle comes with two 8 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix; each fills two 8-inch containers (exact amounts may vary depending on the size of the root ball)
Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix, Protects Against Over and Under Watering, for Indoor Container Plants, Houseplants and Starter Plants, OMRI Listed, 16 qt.
- Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix protects indoor plants against over and under watering
- This organic container mix is made with responsibly sourced sphagnum peat moss (one hundred percent of peat sourced from certified producers), coir, and quick-start natural fertilizer
- Use this potting medium with all types of indoor container plants, including houseplants and herbs; also great for seed starting
- To plant seeds, fill container with potting mix, follow seed package planting directions, and water; To use with transplants, partially fill container, place plant after loosening the root ball, cover with more mix pressing lightly, and water
- One 16 qt. bag of Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix fills one 12-inch container (amounts may vary based on the size of the root ball)
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, For Container Plants, Flowers, Vegetables, Annuals, Perennials, Shrubs, Feeds for up to 6 Months, 16. qt., 2-Pack
- Miracle-Gro Potting Mix feeds container plants for up to 6 months so you get more blooms for more color (vs. unfed plants)
- How to use: To use this potting medium, fill a container about 1/3 full with potting mix, place your plant in the soil, and fill the rest of the pot, pressing lightly
- What’s included: This bundles includes two 16 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, each able to fill one 12-inch container (exact amounts may vary based on root ball size)
- Where to Use: Use this home gardening product with all types of container plants, including annual and perennial flowers, vegetables, herbs and shrubs
- This potting soil mix Grows Plants Twice As Big (vs. unfed plants)
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, For Indoor or Outdoor Potted Plants, Flowers, Vegetables, Shrubs, Annuals, and Perennials, Feeds Up to 6 Months, 8 qt.
- Feeds all potted plants: Miracle-Gro Potting Mix feeds all types of potted plants, including flowers, vegetables, shrubs, annuals, and perennials for up to 6 months
- Promotes growth: This potting soil Grows Plants Twice As Big! (vs. unfed plants)
- Boosts color: Get more blooms for more color (vs unfed plants)
- Application: To apply this potting medium, fill a container about 1/3 full with potting mix, place your plant in the soil, and fill the rest of the pot, pressing lightly; water thoroughly
- Coverage: Each 8 qt. bag of Miracle-Gro Potting Mix fills two 8 inch containers (exact amounts may vary depending on the size of the root ball)
Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix – Fertilized Soil, Designed to be Less Prone to Gnats, 4 qt. (2-Pack)
- Growing indoors is easy under the right conditions; Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix combines key elements plants need to thrive
- This indoor plant soil is less prone to gnats thanks to the combination of perlite, sphagnum and peat moss
- Recommended for growing beautiful, indoor houseplant varieties like pothos, spider plants, monstera, philodendron, english ivy, and more
- Certified by the Mulch & Soil Council as in compliance with industry standards
- Bundle includes two bags of Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix
Rosy Soil Indoor Potting Soil for House Plants – Organic Potting Soil Mix for Indoor Plants – Enriched w/Root-Boosting Biochar for Foliage Plants, Flowers, Herbs – Peat Free, Less Prone to Gnats – 4qt
- Thriving Growth Formula: Rosy Soil indoor potting soil for houseplants enhances the well-being of your indoor garden. Our indoor plant soil is enriched with biochar and pine bark fines for robust root systems, balanced moisture retention, and abundant, healthy plant growth. Say goodbye to wilting and welcome flourishing greenery!
- Ideal for All Types of Houseplants: Our indoor potting mix’s formula promotes living soil, which is teeming with beneficial microorganisms. These tiny soil allies work together with the plants to enhance their growth and are perfect for almost all types of houseplants, including foliage plants, flowers, ferns, herbs, and tropicals.
- Easy Planting Instructions: Fill the base of a well-draining container with the indoor plant soil. Carefully transfer your houseplant, ensuring that you gently free its roots from any debris. Finally, water generously from the top until excess water drains through the container’s drainage hole, providing optimal hydration for indoor plants.
- New Package with Same Quality Soil: Our trusted indoor potting soil mix is now in a fresh, resealable, plastic-neutral bag that keeps soil fresh and easy to use. Made with sustainable, premium materials free from peat and synthetic additives, it’s the same high-quality blend you trust, now in an eco-friendly package.
- Living Soil (Made in USA): Our package contains 4 quarts of indoor potting mix, enough for 2-3 plants, ensuring your indoor oasis remains nourished and flourishing. Fortified with beneficial fungi & microbes to help promote healthy root development and lush foliage.
Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix, for Outdoor Container Plants, Contains Quick-Release Natural Fertilizer, OMRI Listed, 16 qt.
- 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)
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 should I look for in a potting mix for indoor houseplants?
Choose a mix that balances moisture retention with good drainage, contains nutrients for steady growth, and minimizes pest issues like fungus gnats. Look for ingredients such as perlite, coconut coir, or peat moss that help aerate the soil. If you prefer eco‑friendly options, consider peat‑free or organic formulations that still provide the right texture.
How does Miracle‑Gro Houseplant Potting Mix differ from the Indoor Potting Mix?
The Houseplant Mix combines perlite, sphagnum peat, and peat moss for a light, well‑draining blend that’s less prone to gnats, while the Indoor Mix relies on coconut coir for water retention and also claims gnat resistance. Both are fertilized, but the Houseplant version is packaged in a 4‑qt bag for smaller containers, whereas the Indoor Mix comes in two 16‑qt bags suitable for larger pots. The Houseplant Mix is marketed for specific foliage plants like pothos and monstera, while the Indoor Mix is a more general‑purpose blend.
Is a peat‑free, organic mix like Back to the Roots worth the extra cost?
Back to the Roots offers a 100 % organic, peat‑free formula with yucca extract and mycorrhizal fungi that can boost root development and reduce greenhouse emissions. While it may be slightly pricier per quart, the added biological benefits and pet‑safe composition can improve plant health over time. For growers focused on sustainability and long‑term soil health, the value often outweighs the modest price difference.
Which mix provides the best moisture control for forgetful waterers?
Miracle‑Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix uses an AquaCoir formula that absorbs up to 33 % more water than standard soils, helping prevent both over‑ and under‑watering. This mix also includes a built‑in fertilizer that feeds plants for up to six months, reducing the need for frequent feeding. It’s a solid choice for busy households or beginners who want a forgiving medium.
Do organic mixes like Miracle‑Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix perform as well as synthetic ones?
The Organic Indoor Mix combines responsibly sourced peat moss, coir, and a quick‑start natural fertilizer, delivering comparable growth to synthetic blends when used correctly. It also offers the advantage of being pet‑safe and free from synthetic chemicals, which can be important for households with children or animals. Performance may vary slightly, but many growers find the organic option provides healthy, steady growth without compromising safety.
How important is bag size and coverage when selecting a potting mix?
Bag size directly affects cost per plant; larger 16‑qt bags can fill a 12‑inch pot, while 4‑qt bags are better for a few small containers. If you have multiple houseplants or plan to repot regularly, buying in bulk often reduces the per‑quart price. However, ensure the mix stays fresh—store excess in a sealed container to maintain its texture and nutrient content.
Can I use a single potting mix for both foliage plants and herbs?
Yes, many of the listed mixes, such as Miracle‑Gro Indoor Potting Mix and the Organic Indoor Mix, are formulated for a wide range of indoor plants, including foliage, flowering, and herb varieties. Just pay attention to the specific nutrient needs of herbs, which may benefit from a slightly lighter, well‑draining medium. Adjust watering frequency based on the plant type to avoid over‑moisture.
What are the key advantages of mixes that include mycorrhizal fungi or biochar?
Mycorrhizal fungi, found in Back to the Roots, form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, enhancing nutrient uptake and drought tolerance. Biochar, present in Rosy Soil, improves soil structure, retains moisture, and supports beneficial microorganisms. Both additives can lead to stronger, healthier plants, especially in indoor environments where soil life is limited.