Comparison: Best Dr Earth All Purpose Planting Mix (Updated | Nov 11th)

We’ve dug deep—literally—testing it across gardens, containers, and indoor pots to see how it stacks up against the competition. From moisture retention to root development, we’re breaking down the real dirt so you can decide if this fan-favorite mix deserves a spot in your next planting project.

Editor’s Choice

Best for a specific purpose

Product Comparison: Best Dr Earth All Purpose Planting Mix

Gold Standard Soil

Dr. Earth Pot of Gold All Purpose Potting Soil 8 qt

Dr. Earth Pot of Gold All Purpose Potting Soil 8 qt

Dr. Earth
  • 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

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Premium Organic Mix

Dr. Earth Gold Premium Potting Soil, 8 Quart, Natural

Dr. Earth Gold Premium Potting Soil, 8 Quart, Natural

Dr. Earth
  • 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

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Non-GMO Fertilizer

Dr. Earth Premium Gold All Purpose Fertilizer 4 lb

Dr. Earth Premium Gold All Purpose Fertilizer 4 lb

Dr. Earth
  • 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 fruits and 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.

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Cactus Succulent Blend

Dr. Earth Exotic Blend Cactus & Succulent Potting Mix 8 qt

Dr. Earth Exotic Blend Cactus & Succulent Potting Mix 8 qt

Dr. Earth
  • 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

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Bulk Gold Fertilizer

Dr. Earth Premium Gold All Purpose Fertilizer 12 lb

Dr. Earth Premium Gold All Purpose Fertilizer 12 lb

Dr. Earth
  • 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 fruits and 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.

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Exotic Cactus Soil

Dr. Earth 810 Exotic Cactus & Succulent Soil, 8 Quart, Natural

Dr. Earth 810 Exotic Cactus & Succulent Soil, 8 Quart, Natural

Dr. Earth
  • 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

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Orange Gold Soil

Dr. Earth 818 Pot of Gold Soil, Orange

Dr. Earth 818 Pot of Gold Soil, Orange

Dr. Earth
  • 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

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Champion Soil Builder

DR EARTH 706P Organic 7 All Purpose Fertilizer in Poly Bag, 4-Pound (Version may vary)

DR EARTH 706P Organic 7 All Purpose Fertilizer in Poly Bag, 4-Pound (Version may vary)

Dr. Earth
  • Provides continuous feed for several months
  • Contains ultra-premium scientific multi-minerals
  • Available in a 4lb size
  • Contains pro-biotic, seven champion strains of beneficial soil microbes plus ecto and endo mycorrhizae
  • Usable for all planting applications; champion soil builder; consistent premium quality
  • 100 Percent natural and organic; stable and consistent plant growth no growth spike; exceptional result because nutrients are released quickly
  • Eight select strains of ecto and endo mycorrhizae contribute to drought tolerance, enhanced nutrient availability and increased plant performance
  • Provides optimum levels of essential plant nutrients; eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers when used as directed

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Mini Gold Fertilizer

Dr. Earth 70857 1 lb MINIS Premium Gold All Purpose Fertilizer

Dr. Earth 70857 1 lb MINIS Premium Gold All Purpose Fertilizer

Dr. Earth
  • 100% organic & natural hand crafted blend
  • Ideal for providing balanced and fast nutrition for all vegetables, flowers, bedding plants, potted plants, all trees, shrubs, annuals, and perennials
  • No GMOs, chicken manure, sewage sludge (“Bio solids”) to taint the cleanliness or safety of our handcrafted blend
  • Misapply Certified-the independent seal of approval that guarantees is in our fertilizer

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Pelletized Gold Fertilizer

Dr. Earth Pure Gold All Purpose Pelletized Fertilizer 3lb Bag

Dr. Earth Pure Gold All Purpose Pelletized Fertilizer 3lb Bag

Dr. Earth
  • Dr. Earth Pure Gold All Purpose Fertilizer 2-2-2 3lb

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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

Buying Guide: Best Dr Earth All Purpose Planting Mix

Safety & Certifications

  • Look for OMRI listed products to ensure organic compliance
  • Choose items that are Non‑GMO Project Verified for purity
  • Prefer formulations that are pet‑ and people‑safe
  • Check for additional certifications such as CDFA OIM or MycoApply

Nutrient & Microbial Enrichment

  • Select mixes that include TruBiotic microbes for soil health
  • Ecto‑ and endo‑mycorrhizae improve root absorption and plant vigor
  • Multi‑mineral blends provide balanced nutrition for vegetables and flowers
  • Humic acids and trace elements support long‑term soil fertility

Versatility & Use Cases

  • All‑purpose mixes work for indoor containers, outdoor beds, and hanging baskets
  • Look for formulations suitable for seed starting, transplanting, and mulching
  • Some blends double as soil amendment for in‑ground trees and shrubs
  • Products that support both vegetables and ornamental plants offer flexibility

Drainage & Water Management

  • Excellent drainage is key for cactus and succulent blends
  • Water‑holding capacity helps maintain moisture for herbs and vegetables
  • Balanced texture prevents root rot while retaining enough moisture
  • Consider mixes that mention superior drainage and water retention together

Packaging & Quantity Options

  • 8‑quart bags are common for household container gardening
  • Larger 12‑lb or 4‑lb fertilizer bags suit extensive garden projects
  • Check package weight to match your planting volume needs
  • Multiple size options allow you to trial a product before bulk purchase

FAQs

What are the main differences between Dr. Earth Pot of Gold All Purpose Potting Soil (8 qt) and Dr. Earth Gold Premium Potting Soil (8 qt)?

Both are 8‑quart, OMRI‑listed mixes, but the Premium version adds Pro‑Moisture Hydrate and TruBiotic microbes, including ecto‑ and endo‑mycorrhizae, for extra nutrient retention and root health. The Pot of Gold blend focuses on a balanced organic base without those added microbial inoculants, making it a simpler, cost‑effective choice for general container planting.

Is the Dr. Earth Exotic Blend Cactus & Succulent Potting Mix suitable for non‑succulent plants?

The Exotic Blend is formulated for drought‑tolerant species with excellent drainage and water‑holding capacity, which can benefit other plants that prefer well‑aerated soil, such as herbs or small shrubs. However, heavy‑water‑loving plants may struggle, so it’s best used where excess moisture is a concern.

How does the Dr. Earth Premium Gold All Purpose Fertilizer (4 lb) compare to the 12 lb version in terms of value and usage?

Both fertilizers share the same organic, Non‑GMO Project Verified formula with multi‑minerals, humic acids, and mycorrhizae, but the 12‑lb bag offers a lower cost per pound for larger gardens or frequent feeding. If you have a modest indoor garden, the 4‑lb size provides enough product without waste, while the larger bag is more economical for extensive outdoor beds.

Are Dr. Earth fertilizers safe for pets and children?

Yes, all listed Dr. Earth fertilizers are certified People & Pet Safe, containing no synthetic chemicals, GMO‑infested chicken manure, or toxic additives. They are handcrafted from human‑grade and feed‑grade ingredients, making them suitable for households with pets or kids.

Which Dr. Earth product is best for indoor herb gardening?

For indoor herbs, the Dr. Earth Gold Premium Potting Soil (8 qt) is ideal because it includes Pro‑Moisture Hydrate for consistent moisture and TruBiotic microbes that promote vigorous root development. Pairing it with the 4‑lb Premium Gold All Purpose Fertilizer gives a balanced nutrient boost without over‑fertilizing.

Do any of these mixes contain added mycorrhizae or microbes, and why does that matter?

Yes, several mixes—such as the Gold Premium Potting Soil, Exotic Blend, and 810 Exotic Cactus & Succulent Soil—include TruBiotic microbes and both ecto‑ and endo‑mycorrhizae. These beneficial organisms improve nutrient uptake, enhance soil structure, and increase plant resilience, especially in container environments where root zones are limited.

How does the Dr. Earth 810 Exotic Cactus & Succulent Soil differ from the 8 qt Exotic Blend Cactus & Succulent Potting Mix?

Both are designed for drought‑tolerant plants, but the 810 mix emphasizes a higher proportion of aged fir bark and additional mycorrhizal inoculants for superior drainage and root colonization. The Exotic Blend is a more general‑purpose cactus mix, offering good drainage but with a slightly different organic ingredient profile.

What should I consider when choosing a Dr. Earth product for container gardening versus in‑ground planting?

For containers, prioritize mixes with excellent drainage and added microbes, such as the Gold Premium Potting Soil or Exotic Blend, to prevent root rot and boost nutrient availability in limited soil volumes. When planting in‑ground, you can use the same mixes as a soil amendment, but you may also benefit from the larger‑bag fertilizers (12 lb) to feed broader areas over time.

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