Comparison: Best Soil To Plant Tomatoes In (Updated | Nov 11th)

Tomatoes need a well‑draining mix that retains enough moisture for steady root growth, a balanced pH around 6.0‑6.8, and plenty of organic matter for nutrients. A blend that includes peat, coconut coir, or compost helps achieve this balance, while perlite or sand improves aeration. Look for mixes that also contain a slow‑release fertilizer if you prefer fewer feedings.

Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor Mix includes a quick‑release natural fertilizer that feeds plants for up to two months, making it convenient for busy gardeners. Coast of Maine’s soil is formulated specifically for tomatoes and vegetables, emphasizing a lightweight compost blend with balanced moisture retention and drainage. While Miracle‑Gro offers immediate nutrition, Coast of Maine provides a more targeted nutrient profile for tomato productivity.

Yes, Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix is peat‑free and uses upcycled plant material, which reduces environmental impact while still providing good structure. It contains yucca extract for moisture control and dolomitic limestone for pH balance, both beneficial for tomato roots. However, it does not include built‑in fertilizer, so you’ll need to supplement with a tomato‑specific feed.

A mix with built‑in fertilizer, like Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor, simplifies care by delivering nutrients for the first few weeks, which is helpful for new transplants. Adding fertilizer separately gives you more control over nutrient timing and amounts, especially if you want to adjust feeding for fruiting stages. Consider your gardening routine: if you prefer low‑maintenance, a pre‑fertilized mix is ideal; if you want precise nutrient management, opt for an unfertilized organic blend.

Tomatoes thrive in slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0‑6.8); outside this range nutrient uptake can be limited, leading to poor fruit set. Both Back to the Roots mixes include dolomitic limestone to help maintain optimal pH, and Coast of Maine’s soil is formulated for balanced acidity. Miracle‑Gro mixes are generally pH‑neutral but may benefit from a quick soil test and amendment if your water is highly alkaline.

The 25‑quart bag of Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix fills three 10‑inch containers, providing a cost‑effective option for multiple tomato pots. Back to the Roots offers a 12‑quart bag that fills about two 12‑inch containers, which is slightly less volume per dollar but includes premium peat‑free ingredients. For the lowest price per plant, compare the per‑quart cost and the number of containers each bag can fill.

Miracle‑Gro Indoor Potting Mix and the indoor version of Miracle‑Gro are formulated without compost or bark, making them less attractive to fungus gnats. Back to the Roots Indoor Mix also avoids bark and includes organic yucca extract, which helps control moisture and deter gnats. Choosing a sterile, low‑organic‑matter mix is the most effective way to keep gnats at bay while seedlings develop.

If reducing carbon footprint is a priority, peat‑free options like Back to the Roots use upcycled plant material and avoid peat extraction. Products certified OMRI, such as Coast of Maine and Down To Earth fertilizers, ensure organic compliance and sustainable sourcing. Additionally, look for mixes that use responsibly sourced peat or recycled packaging to further minimize environmental impact.