Comparison: Best Gardner & Bloome Potting Soil (Updated | Nov 11th)

Look for a blend that balances moisture retention with aeration, such as mixes containing perlite or vermiculite. A mix with added fertilizer, like Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix, can give your plants a nutrient boost without extra feeding. Also check for pest‑resistant formulations that reduce gnats, which many indoor mixes now include.

Moisture Control uses an AquaCoir formula that absorbs up to 33% more water and includes a wetting agent, helping prevent both over‑ and under‑watering. The standard Potting Mix focuses on rapid growth with a traditional peat‑based blend and feeds plants for up to six months. Choose Moisture Control if you often forget watering or have variable climate conditions.

Organic mixes, like the Miracle‑Gro Organic Indoor and Outdoor blends, use responsibly sourced peat, coir, and natural fertilizers, offering a gentler impact on soil biology and the environment. They typically feed plants for a shorter period (about two months) but provide a more sustainable option. If you prioritize eco‑friendliness and want to avoid synthetic chemicals, the higher price can be justified.

For succulents and cacti, a fast‑draining mix is essential; the Miracle‑Gro Cactus, Palm & Citrus Potting Mix and the Miracle‑Gro Succulent Potting Mix both provide excellent drainage with added perlite and sand. The Cactus mix also includes plant food for extra vigor, while the Succulent mix is formulated specifically for indoor succulent varieties. Choose the one that matches your preferred container size and whether you need extra fertilization.

While many mixes work in both settings, outdoor containers benefit from blends that handle harsher temperature swings and heavier watering, like the Miracle‑Gro Moisture Control or Organic Outdoor mixes. Indoor mixes often prioritize lighter textures and pest resistance, such as the Houseplant Potting Mix. Using a dedicated indoor mix for outdoor pots may lead to faster drying and reduced nutrient retention.

Back to the Roots offers a peat‑free, upcycled blend that reduces carbon footprint and includes yucca extract for better moisture control and dolomitic limestone for pH balance. It’s certified 100% organic, making it suitable for growers who avoid synthetic inputs. The mix is versatile for herbs, vegetables, fruits, and flowers, providing a solid all‑purpose alternative.

A 4‑quart bag of Miracle‑Gro Houseplant Potting Mix or Succulent Potting Mix generally fills an 8‑inch pot, while larger 8‑quart bags of Moisture Control or Cactus mixes can fill two such containers. For bigger 12‑inch pots, a 16‑quart bag of standard or organic mixes is recommended. Always fill the pot about one‑third with mix, place the plant, then top off to ensure proper root coverage.

Yes, many Miracle‑Gro mixes contain slow‑release nutrients that can feed plants for up to six months, reducing the need for supplemental fertilizer. Organic mixes typically provide a shorter feeding window of about two months, after which you may need to add a balanced organic fertilizer. Monitor plant growth and leaf color to decide if additional feeding is necessary.