Comparison: Best Dr Earth Acid Lovers Potting Soil (Updated | Nov 11th)
Earth. But does it really live up to the hype? We’ve dug into the details—ingredients, performance, value—to see how Dr. Earth Acid Lovers potting soil stacks up against the competition. Whether you’re growing azaleas, camellias, or blueberries, choosing the right mix makes all the difference. Let’s break down what sets this popular organic option apart and if it’s truly the best choice for your garden’s pH-sensitive favorites.
- Best for acid-loving blend: Dr. Earth Acid Lovers Azalea
- Best for non-gmo fertilizer: Dr. Earth Acid Lovers Azalea
- Best for microbe-rich soil: Dr. Earth Gold Premium Potting Soil
- Best for low-ph premium: Coast of Maine Organic & Natural Planting Soil for Acid Loving Plants Azalea
- Best for all-purpose gold: Dr. Earth Pot of Gold All Purpose Potting Soil 8 qt
- Best for cactus succulent mix: Dr. Earth Exotic Blend Cactus & Succulent Potting Mix 8 qt
- Best for extended acid feed: Dr. Earth 703P Organic 4 Azalea/Camellia/Rhododendron Acid Fertilizer in Poly Bag
- Best for superior drainage mix: Dr. Earth 810 Exotic Cactus & Succulent Soil
- Best for orange gold soil: Dr. Earth 818 Pot of Gold Soil
- Best for artisan acid blend: Soil Sunrise Acid Loving Plant Potting Soil Mix (12 Quarts) Premium Container Blend pH Balanced for Azaleas
Product Comparison: Best Dr Earth Acid Lovers Potting Soil
Dr. Earth Acid Lovers Azalea, Camellia, Rhododendron & Maple Planting Mix – 8 Quart
- Natural and Organic Hand Crafted Blend
- Great for acid loving plants such as Azaleas, Camellias, Rhododendrons, And Maples
- No synthetic ingredients or GMO infested chicken manure
- Contains TruBiotic beneficial soil microbes & mycorrhizae, contributing to drought tolerance, enhanced nutrient availability & increased performance.
- Sustainably made from premium, food grade ingredients, contributing to water purity and a reduction in green house gas emissions.
Dr. Earth Acid Lovers Azalea, Camellia, Rhododendron & Maple Fertilizer 4 lb
- The only Non-GMO Project Verified fertilizer in the U.S.A.
- People & Pet Safe – no synthetic chemicals, GMO infested chicken manure or toxic ingredients.
- Handcrafted from human and feed grade ingredients. Enriched with multi-minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, humic acids & trace elements that promote the healthiest soils capable of growing the healthiest vegetables for your family.
- Organic Transparency; OMRI (Organic Material Review Institute), OIM (Organic Input Materials), CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers), NOP (National Organic Program) and Non-GMO Project Verified the highest level of purity and transparency.
- Sustainably made in the U.S.A. through a collaboration of high level enviornmentalists inspired to positively change the world. Formulated by Milo Shammas, founder of Dr. Earth, to grow Home Grown Foods.
Dr. Earth Gold Premium Potting Soil, 8 Quart, Natural
- Soil comes in an 8 qt. bag, includes Pro-Moisture Hydrate, is OMRI listed, MycoApply certified and perfectly safe for both pets and people
- Formulated for both indoor and outdoor potting and container use, this soil is a perfect match for your herbs, vegetables, indoor gardens, all container plants and flowers
- You can use it as a soil amendment for the in-ground planting of trees, shrubs, bare roots, flowers and vegetables
- Soil is great for mulching, seed cover, indoor garden production, transplanting, compost use, soil Boosts and even clay soil applications
- Soil is loaded with quality organic ingredients and the welcome addition of TruBiotic soil microbes with both ecto and endo mycorrhizae
- Power source type: Corded Electric
Coast of Maine Organic & Natural Planting Soil for Acid Loving Plants Azalea, Rhododendron & Berries – Premium Planting Soil w/Composted Manure, Sphagnum Peat Moss – Low pH, Enhanced Drainage (20 Qt)
- PREMIUM INGREDIENTS: This specifically crafted organic compost blend has a low pH premium formulation that is naturally lightweight and contains just the right ingredients ensuring healthy growth and beautiful results.
- READY TO USE ORGANIC COMPOST: Coast of Maine Planting Organic Soil for Acid-Loving Plants improves and revitalizes plants that thrive in lower pH soils like rhododendrons, azaleas, hollies, blueberries, strawberries, ferns, fuchsias, camellias, dogwoods, and conifers.
- REVITALIZING PLANT CARE: Indoor and Outdoor Planting Soil for Acid Loving Plants is formulated to balance moisture retention and drainage, making it perfect add-in to revitalize soil for beautiful blossoms and fruit.
- EARTH FRIENDLY COMPOST FOR SOIL: OMRI listed for organic use, our organic potting soil for acid loving plants reflects Coast of Maine’s commitment to nature-conscious, responsible gardening practices.
- HARVESTING A BRIGHTER FUTURE: Since 1996, Coast of Maine has been dedicated to sustainable, regenerative practices that nourish healthy plants. Our indoor and outdoor gardening products are made with all-natural components, providing a sustainable, planet-friendly solution for enriching garden soil. Our commitment to quality and environmental stewardship ensures that every product supports a healthier garden and planet.
Dr. Earth Pot of Gold All Purpose Potting Soil 8 qt
- 8 Quart Bag
- Ideal for herbs, vegetables, indoor gardens, container plants, flowers and all container plants.
- Use in any size container, both indoor and outdoor, including hanging baskets house plants and patio
- People and Pet safe.
- OMRI listed, Non-GMO Project Verified, CDFA OIM Registered
Dr. Earth Exotic Blend Cactus & Succulent Potting Mix 8 qt
- 8 Quart Bag
- Ideal for Cactus, succulents and all drought tolerant plants. Container plants love the mix.
- Excellent for use in container, both indoor and outdoor, including hanging baskets & house plants
- This blend has excellent drainage and water holding capabilities simultaneously.
- OMRI listed, Non-GMO Project Verified, CDFA OIM Registered
Dr. Earth 703P Organic 4 Azalea/Camellia/Rhododendron Acid Fertilizer in Poly Bag, 4-Pound
- People and pets safe when used as directed
- Provides continuous feed for several months
- Available in a 4lb size
- Contains pro-biotic, seven champion strains of beneficial soil microbes plus ecto and endo mycorrhizae
- Makes soil more acidic; 100-percent natural and organic; superior buds and blooms
- Exceptional results because nutrients are released quickly; feeds for several months
- Eight select strains of ecto and endo mycorrhizae contribute to drought tolerance, enhanced nutrient availability and increased plant performance
- 100-Percent organic formula provides optimum levels of essential plant nutrients; eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers when used as directed
Dr. Earth 810 Exotic Cactus & Succulent Soil, 8 Quart, Natural
- Potting mix comes in an 8 qt. bag, is OMRI listed, perfectly safe for people and pets, and MycoApply certified
- Specifically formulated to meet the many needs of cactus, succulents, all drought-tolerant plants and even container plants, this mix can be applied to both indoor and outdoor planting projects
- With superior drainage and water holding features at your disposal, you’ll be surprised at just how many planting projects you can tackle in your garden
- You can apply the mix to containers, use it to enrich soils, clay soil, for transplanting and even compost tea
- This soil mix is formulated from a high-quality selection of composted organic materials that work to aid your plants in becoming established, like aged fir bark, TruBiotic, ecto and endo mycorrhizae
Dr. Earth 818 Pot of Gold Soil, Orange
- Organic soil, amended with our fertilizer, microbes and mycorrhizal, making it one of the Best on the market.
- Dr. Earth pot of gold all purpose potting soil, great for all of your small gardening needs.
- The aim of Dr. Earth is to offer many high quality products to customers and satisfy the needs of all customers. To achieve this, Dr. Earth will spend more time to design the products.
- Item Package Weight: 4.0 pounds
Soil Sunrise Acid Loving Plant Potting Soil Mix (12 Quarts) Premium Container Blend pH Balanced for Azaleas, Rhododendrons, Blueberries and More
- Optimal pH Balance: Expert blend, ideal acidic environment for azaleas, rhododendrons, and blueberries and more, ensures pH balance for growth and vibrant blooms
- All-Natural: Premium blend of natural ingredients promoting a healthy sustainable growing environment, eco-friendly mix, artisan-crafted in Kentucky
- Enhanced Drainage and Aeration: Includes perlite and sphagnum moss for optimal moisture balance and robust root development; improved nutrient absorption
- Natural Acidity Boost: Enriched with pine to enhance soil pH, letting your acid-loving plants thrive
- Ingredients: Peat moss, pine needle mulch, pine bark mulch, sphagnum moss and vermiculite
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 features should I look for in an acid‑loving potting soil?
Choose a mix that has a low pH, organic ingredients like peat moss and pine bark, and added mycorrhizal fungi for nutrient uptake. Look for certifications such as OMRI or Non‑GMO Project Verified to ensure the blend is truly organic. Beneficial microbes (TruBiotic) and good drainage agents (perlite or vermiculite) also improve plant health.
How does Dr. Earth Acid Lovers Planting Mix compare to Coast of Maine’s acid‑loving soil?
Both products are formulated for low‑pH plants, but Dr. Earth includes TruBiotic microbes and mycorrhizae, while Coast of Maine emphasizes a lightweight, pine‑based blend with a focus on sustainability. Dr. Earth’s mix is hand‑crafted and Non‑GMO Project Verified, whereas Coast of Maine highlights OMRI certification and a higher proportion of pine needle mulch. In practice, Dr. Earth may give a stronger microbial boost, while Coast of Maine offers a slightly more natural, less processed feel.
Is the Dr. Earth Acid Lovers fertilizer (4 lb) a good companion to the planting mix?
Yes, the fertilizer is designed to maintain acidity and provide a steady release of nutrients, complementing the planting mix’s organic base. It is also Non‑GMO Project Verified and safe for pets, which matches the mix’s safety profile. Using both together can extend bloom time and improve overall plant vigor.
What value does the larger 12‑quart Soil Sunrise Acid Loving mix provide over the 8‑quart Dr. Earth options?
The 12‑quart bag offers a lower cost per quart and includes a blend of peat, pine needle mulch, pine bark, sphagnum moss, and vermiculite for enhanced drainage and aeration. Its artisan‑crafted formulation from Kentucky adds a regional touch, while still delivering the same acidic environment needed for azaleas and rhododendrons. For gardeners with multiple beds or larger containers, the bigger size reduces the frequency of repurchasing.
Can I use Dr. Earth Gold Premium Potting Soil for acid‑loving plants?
Dr. Earth Gold is an all‑purpose mix with a neutral pH, so it won’t naturally provide the acidity that azaleas or camellias require. However, you can amend it with a small amount of acid‑loving fertilizer or a peat‑based additive to lower the pH. If you prefer a ready‑to‑use solution, the dedicated Acid Lovers mix is more convenient.
How important are the microbial inoculants (TruBiotic, mycorrhizae) in these soils?
Microbial inoculants help break down organic matter, improve nutrient availability, and increase drought tolerance, which is especially valuable for sensitive acid‑loving plants. Mycorrhizal fungi extend the root system’s reach, allowing better water and mineral uptake. Soils that include these microbes, like Dr. Earth’s Acid Lovers and Gold mixes, typically deliver stronger, more resilient growth.
What buying tip can help me choose the right amount of soil for my garden?
Measure the volume of your containers or planting beds and purchase soil that slightly exceeds that amount to allow for settling and future top‑ups. For small indoor pots, an 8‑quart bag is usually sufficient, while larger outdoor beds benefit from the 12‑quart or bulk options. Buying in bulk can save money, but ensure the product’s shelf life is adequate for your planting schedule.