Comparison: Best Dr Earth All Purpose Potting Soil (Updated | Nov 11th)

Look for a blend that is organic, OMRI‑listed, and safe for pets and children, as these certifications guarantee clean ingredients. Check for added nutrients such as mycorrhizal fungi, worm castings, or proprietary microbes that improve root health. Finally, compare the bag size and price per cubic foot to ensure you get the best value for your garden’s needs.

Dr. Earth Pot of Gold is an 8‑quart bag that includes TruBiotic microbes, mycorrhizae, and a proprietary fertilizer blend, while Back to the Roots offers a larger 12‑quart peat‑free mix made from upcycled plant material and yucca extract for moisture control. Both are certified organic, but Dr. Earth emphasizes microbial activity, whereas Back to the Roots highlights a lower carbon footprint and a peat‑free formula. Price‑per‑quart is usually similar, so the choice hinges on whether you prioritize microbial inoculants or a larger, peat‑free volume.

Yes, the Premium Gold 8‑quart soil is labeled as people‑ and pet‑safe, contains no synthetic chemicals, and holds certifications such as OMRI, Non‑GMO Project Verified, and MycoApply. The formulation uses natural, hand‑crafted ingredients like organic compost and beneficial microbes, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor containers where families and pets may be present.

When measuring cost per quart, the Dr. Earth Pot of Gold (8 qt) and the Dr. Earth Premium Gold (also 8 qt) typically price similarly, but the Pot of Gold includes a full suite of microbes and a balanced fertilizer, giving more bang for the buck. The Back to the Roots mix provides a larger 12‑qt bag at a comparable price, which can be more economical for larger projects, though it lacks the added mycorrhizal inoculants found in Dr. Earth soils.

Mycorrhizal fungi form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, extending the root network to improve water and nutrient uptake, especially phosphorus. Dr. Earth’s blends contain both ecto‑ and endo‑mycorrhizae, which help seedlings establish faster and increase overall plant vigor. Over time, this can lead to healthier yields and reduced need for supplemental fertilization.

Miracle‑Gro’s mix is designed primarily for outdoor containers and includes a quick‑release natural fertilizer that feeds plants for up to two months, whereas Dr. Earth focuses on a balanced microbial ecosystem with long‑term soil health benefits. Miracle‑Gro uses responsibly sourced peat as a base, while Dr. Earth blends often incorporate coconut coir, perlite, and organic amendments for better moisture retention and aeration. The two products serve different priorities: fast feeding versus sustained microbial support.

Yes, the Exotic Blend’s excellent drainage and water‑holding balance works well for most indoor container plants, not just succulents. Its OMRI‑listed, non‑GMO formulation is safe for pets and children, and the added mycorrhizae can benefit a wide range of foliage. However, plants that prefer consistently moist soils may need supplemental watering compared to a standard all‑purpose mix.

Harris blends worm castings—a nutrient‑dense “superfood” rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients—into a fast‑draining mix that includes pumice, perlite, and coco coir for aeration and moisture retention. This combination provides immediate nutrition while maintaining root health, making it a strong competitor to Dr. Earth’s microbe‑focused formulas. The inclusion of sustainable coco coir also reduces reliance on peat, appealing to environmentally conscious gardeners.