Comparison: Best Black Gold Ultra Outdoor Planting Mix (Updated | Nov 11th)
We dug into the details—literally—to see how it stacks up against top competitors. From texture to nutrient content, drainage to plant performance, we’re breaking down what really matters in a premium mix. Whether you’re planting flowers, veggies, or shrubs, let’s find out if this soil is worth every handful.
- Best for seedling starter: Black Gold Seedling Mix
- Best for dual pack organic: Black Gold 1302040 8-Quart All Organic Potting Soil 2 Pack
- Best for bulk trio potting: Black Gold 16-Quart All Organic Potting Soil
- Best for african violet blend: Sun Gro Horticulture Black Gold African Violet Mix
- Best for all-season garden: SUNGRO HORTICULTURE Black Gold 1302040 16-Quart All Organic Potting Soil
- Best for houseplant all-purpose: SunGro Black Gold All Purpose Potting Soil Fertilizer Mix for House Plants
- Best for cutting germination: Sun Gro Black Gold Seeds or Cutting Seedling Germination Mix
Product Comparison: Best Black Gold Ultra Outdoor Planting Mix
Black Gold Seedling Mix, 8 quart
- Black Gold Seedling Mix 8qt Listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute for the production of organic food and fiber
- This mix combines double screened Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss and other fine ingredients to give seedlings the aeration and moisture retention they need for strong development
- This product is made in United States
- Listed by the organic materials review institute for the production of organic food and fiber
- Combines double screened Canadian sphagnum peat moss and other fine ingredients to give seedlings the aeration and moisture retention they need for strong development
- Contains Canadian sphagnum peat moss, perlite, dolomite lime, and an organic wetting agent
- Use for germinating seeds in flats, pots, and plug trays
- 8-Quart
Sun Gro Horticulture Black Gold African Violet Mix
- The blend consists of Sphagnum Peat Moss, perlite, volcanic pumice and earthworm castings with dolomite lime added as a soil pH adjuster
- This product is made in United States
- Package Weight: 1.724 kilograms
- Package Dimensions: 8.89 L x 37.592 H x 24.13 W (centimeters)
SUNGRO HORTICULTURE Black Gold 1302040 16-Quart All Organic Potting Soil
- Ideal for all container-grown flowers, herbs and vegetables
- Enriched with earthworm castings, perlite, pumice and organic fertilizer
- OMRI listed organic
- 16 quart bag
- Packaging may vary
- Listed by the organic materials review institute for the production of organic food and fiber
- Rich, loamy mix is one of the best for all gardening applications
- Perlite and pumice are added to ensure optimum pore and air space for sturdy growth
- Use in hanging baskets, patio containers, herb gardens, vegetable plantings, and anywhere you would like to use an organic soil
- Regionally formulated, western region only , Packaging may vary
SunGro Black Gold All Purpose Potting Soil Fertilizer Mix for House Plants, Vegetables, Herbs and More, 16 Quart Bag (4 Pack)
Sun Gro Black Gold Seeds or Cutting Seedling Germination Mix,16 Quart (4 Pack)
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 are the key differences between the Black Gold Seedling Mix (8 qt) and the Black Gold All‑Organic Potting Soil (8 qt) 2‑Pack?
The Seedling Mix is formulated specifically for young seedlings, using double‑screened Canadian sphagnum peat moss for superior aeration and moisture retention. The All‑Organic Potting Soil is a broader blend designed for a range of indoor and outdoor plants, and it typically includes added perlite and organic fertilizers. Choose the Seedling Mix if you’re starting delicate seedlings, and the All‑Organic mix for established houseplants or garden containers.
Is the 16‑Quart Black Gold All‑Organic Potting Soil (3‑Pack) a better value than buying a single 8‑Quart bag?
Buying the 3‑Pack of 16‑quart bags usually offers a lower cost per quart because of bulk pricing and reduced packaging waste. The larger quantity is ideal for gardeners who need to fill multiple containers or beds. However, if you only have a few small pots, the 8‑quart size may be more manageable and prevent excess soil that could go unused.
How does the Sun Gro Black Gold African Violet Mix differ from the standard Black Gold potting soils?
The African Violet Mix is tailored for the specific needs of African violets, featuring a finer texture, added perlite, volcanic pumice, and earthworm castings to provide gentle drainage and consistent moisture. It also includes dolomite lime to maintain an optimal pH for these sensitive houseplants. Regular Black Gold mixes are more general‑purpose and may be too coarse for delicate foliage like African violets.
Are all of these Black Gold products OMRI‑listed and suitable for organic gardening?
Yes, each product in the Black Gold line mentioned is OMRI‑listed, meaning they meet the standards for organic production. This certification ensures the mixes contain only approved organic ingredients and no synthetic chemicals. You can safely use any of them in certified organic gardens or containers.
Which Black Gold mix provides the most nutrients for vegetable gardening?
The 16‑Quart Black Gold All‑Organic Potting Soil (1302040) includes earthworm castings, perlite, pumice, and an organic fertilizer blend, offering a balanced nutrient profile for vegetables. Its larger volume also allows for consistent feeding over a longer growing season. For high‑yield vegetable beds, this mix typically outperforms the seedling‑focused blends.
What should I consider when choosing between a single 16‑Quart bag and a 4‑Pack of 16‑Quart seedling mixes?
A single 16‑quart bag is convenient for one large project, such as a raised bed, while the 4‑Pack provides flexibility to distribute mix across multiple containers or locations. The seedling mix in the 4‑Pack is optimized for early plant development, offering extra aeration and moisture control, which is beneficial for starting herbs or flowers. Evaluate the scale of your planting and whether you need specialized seedling care.
How do the packaging sizes affect storage and shelf life of Black Gold soils?
Larger bags, like the 16‑quart or 3‑Pack, are more cost‑effective but require a dry, cool storage area to prevent moisture buildup and mold. Smaller 8‑quart bags are easier to keep sealed and are less likely to sit unused for long periods, preserving their freshness. Regardless of size, store the soil in a tightly closed container or resealable bag to maintain its quality.