Comparison: Best Organic Growing Medium (Updated | Nov 11th)

But with so many options—coconut coir, compost blends, peat moss, and more—how do you choose the best one for your needs? We’ve tested and compared the top organic growing mediums to help you decide which delivers real results, supports healthy roots, and keeps your garden flourishing—naturally. Let’s break down what actually works, without the hype.

Product Comparison: Best Organic Growing Medium

Brain Boost Milk

Horizon Organic Growing Years Whole Milk, High Vitamin D Organic Milk for Growing Kids with DHA Omega-3, Choline, and Prebiotics, 59 fl oz Carton​

Horizon Organic Growing Years Whole Milk, High Vitamin D Organic Milk for Growing Kids with DHA Omega-3, Choline, and Prebiotics, 59 fl oz Carton​

Horizon Organic
  • Organic Whole Milk for Kids: One 59 fl oz carton of Horizon Organic Growing Years DHA Omega-3 Whole Milk helps deliver nutrients growing kids need in delicious, always certified USDA Organic milk they love​
  • DHA Supports Brain Health: DHA whole milk provides 50mg DHA Omega-3 per serving, which helps support brain and eye health, as well as choline, which helps transport DHA throughout the body​
  • Developed with Pediatricians: Horizon Organic Growing Years Whole Milk was developed with pediatricians and includes key nutrients for growing kids
  • Essential Nutrients: Each 1 cup serving of this organic whole milk has 8g protein** and nutrients kids need, including calcium, vitamin A, vitamin D, and prebiotics​
  • Horizon Organic Farming Means: No prohibited pesticides used, no growth hormones used***, no antibiotics used, non-GMO, and pasture-raised**** cows​

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DHA Reduced Fat

Horizon Organic Growing Years 2% Milk, High Vitamin D Reduced Fat Milk for Growing Kids with DHA Omega-3, Choline, and Prebiotics, 59 fl oz Carton​

Horizon Organic Growing Years 2% Milk, High Vitamin D Reduced Fat Milk for Growing Kids with DHA Omega-3, Choline, and Prebiotics, 59 fl oz Carton​

Horizon Organic
  • Organic 2% Milk for Kids: One 59 fl oz carton of Horizon Organic Growing Years DHA Omega-3 2% Milk helps deliver nutrients growing kids need in delicious, always certified USDA Organic milk they love​
  • DHA Milk Supports Brain Health: DHA 2% milk provides 50mg DHA Omega-3 per serving, which helps support brain and eye health, as well as choline, which helps transport DHA throughout the body​
  • Developed with Pediatricians: Horizon Organic Growing Years 2% Milk was developed with pediatricians and includes key nutrients for growing kids
  • Essential Nutrients: Each 1 cup serving of this organic 2% milk has 8g protein** and nutrients kids need, including calcium, vitamin A, vitamin D, and prebiotics​
  • Horizon Organic Farming Means: No prohibited pesticides used, no growth hormones used**, no antibiotics used, non-GMO, and pasture-raised*** cows

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Heat Ready Grower

New Country Organics | Organic Grower/Broiler Feed for Growing Chickens | Soy-Free | 19% Protein | Certified Organic and Non-GMO | 25 lbs

New Country Organics | Organic Grower/Broiler Feed for Growing Chickens | Soy-Free | 19% Protein | Certified Organic and Non-GMO | 25 lbs

New Country Organics
  • TAILORED FOR BROILERS: Our organic chicken feed is specifically designed for growing chicks beyond 4 weeks of age. Our chicken grower feed is enriched with probiotics, and contains a carefully balanced blend of protein, vitamins, and minerals to promote the development of healthy bones and feathers from chick to hen.
  • CONTROLLED WEIGHT GAIN: Maintaining healthy growth requires a gradual reduction in protein content in chicken feed to ensure your feathered friends’ development is steady and well-balanced. Enjoy 2% lower protein than regular chick starter feed, to keep your chickens healthy and at the right size for your needs.
  • CONVENIENT PACKAGING: Available in a 25 lb bag, our organic chicken grower feed is not only exceptional in quality but also convenient to store and handle. Keep your flock nourished effortlessly and economically!
  • CLIMATE CONTROL: With low starch content, this chicken grower feed is ideal for hot climates, promoting comfort and optimal performance even in sweltering conditions.
  • ALWAYS ORGANIC EGGCELLENCE: Elevate your chicken’s nutrition and performance with New Country Organics Grower Chicken Feed, crafted from the finest North American-sourced organic ingredients, ensuring pure, superior quality for your flock. Choose the natural choice for your chick to hen journey. Explore our Amazon Store to discover the full range of chicken dietary options.

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All Season Food

Burpee Natural Purpose Granular 4-Lb Organic Food for Growing Strong Plants | Good for Vegetable Garden, Flower Garden & Seed Starting, 4 lb, 4lb. Bag

Burpee Natural Purpose Granular 4-Lb Organic Food for Growing Strong Plants | Good for Vegetable Garden, Flower Garden & Seed Starting, 4 lb, 4lb. Bag

Burpee
  • FEED YOUR PLANTS: Burpee’s All-Purpose Organic Plant Food is formulated to keep your plants growing and happy throughout the season. Major nutrients as well as calcium, minor nutrients, and some of the beneficial microbes that help keep the soil and plants healthy are released immediately and continue to feed your plants for up to 3 months.
  • FOR VEGETABLES, FLOWERS & HERBS: Use this natural plant food for seed starting, bedding plants, vegetable gardens, trees, shrubs and flower containers. OMRI labeled organic. The custom blend promotes plant growth and more blooms! Great for indoor or outdoor plants.
  • ORGANIC CERTIFIED: OMRI listed for organic gardening use, this plant food safely keeps your soil and plants as healthy as they can be. Easy to apply granules release essential nutrients and deliver fast-acting results for all types of plants in your home garden. Follow instructions on the bag for how much plant food to apply.
  • GREAT FOR CONTAINERS: Use this balanced mix to promote growth of flowers, vegetable and herbs in patio pots and containers. You’ll see the difference in plant health, fruit production and vibrancy of blooms. A natural fertilizer for growing your best garden.
  • Since 1876: Generations of customers have trusted Burpee to deliver the highest quality products and service. Gardeners rely on Burpee for accurate plant information and how-to tips that make gardening easier and more successful. Let’s grow together!

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5 Day Broccoli

Nature Jims Sprouts Organic Broccoli Seeds for Sprouting – Certified Non-GMO, Rich in Sulforaphane, Swift-Growing Microgreen Seeds for Nutritious Broccoli Sprouts – Ideal for Indoor/Outdoor Use – 8oz

Nature Jims Sprouts Organic Broccoli Seeds for Sprouting – Certified Non-GMO, Rich in Sulforaphane, Swift-Growing Microgreen Seeds for Nutritious Broccoli Sprouts – Ideal for Indoor/Outdoor Use – 8oz

Nature Jims Sprouts
  • GROW NUTRITIOUS BROCCOLI SPROUTS AT HOME: Enjoy vitamin-packed organic broccoli sprouts with Nature Jims’ broccoli sprout seeds. Ideal for indoor and outdoor growing, these seeds offer fresh, healthy sprouts in no time.
  • CERTIFIED ORGANIC BROCCOLI SEEDS FOR SPROUTING: Our non-GMO, organic broccoli sprout seeds are renowned for quality, ensuring you receive premium seeds for sprouting. Ideal for growing nutrient-rich broccoli sprouts right at home.
  • SWIFT-GROWING MICROGREEN SEEDS: Nature Jims’ broccoli seeds for sprouting sprouts in just 5 days! Enjoy fresh, crunchy broccoli sprouts in no time, ideal for those who want healthy microgreens that grow quickly.
  • HEALTH BENEFITS OF BROCCOLI SPROUTS: Packed with sulforaphane, our organic broccoli sprouts elevate your defense system, and promote healthy digestion for overall wellness. Enjoy the power of nature with every sprout!
  • ESTABLISHED QUALITY SINCE 1955: With nearly 60 years of experience, Nature Jims has been providing premium organic sprouting seeds and microgreens. With unwavering confidence in our product, we ensure the quality of our broccoli sprout seeds.

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Certified Indoor Herbs

Organic Herb Garden Kit Indoor – Certified Organic & Made in USA | Herb Plants for Women and Men, Indoor Herb Garden Starter Kit, Herb Growing Kit Indoor, Plant Growing Kit, Herb Starter Kit Plant Kit

Organic Herb Garden Kit Indoor - Certified Organic & Made in USA | Herb Plants for Women and Men, Indoor Herb Garden Starter Kit, Herb Growing Kit Indoor, Plant Growing Kit, Herb Starter Kit Plant Kit

Spade To Fork
  • Oregon Family Farm Business – Our company is family owned and operated on our 65 acre farm in rural Oregon. Each Spade To Fork indoor garden kit contains 5 types of Certified USDA Organic Non GMO seeds. The herb planters for indoor plants also include Italian Large Leaf Basil, Coriander Cilantro (slow bolt), Peione Parsley, Broad Leaf Sage and Thyme; 5 OMRI listed compostable peat pots; 5 OMRI certified rich potting soil discs; 5 custom wood burned plant markers; our beautiful 26pg growing guide
  • Entire Kit Is Certified USDA Organic – Most kitchen herb garden germination kits only include organic seeds, but their soil and pots are sometimes treated with harmful chemicals and pesticides. We are strong believers in sustainable, eco friendly, fully organic systems that are safe for our families and women, men, kids and every grower. Our DIY culinary indoor plant growing system is fully and proudly certified by ODA right here in Oregon.
  • The Perfect Special Gift – Our indoor herb seed kit makes a fun gift for virtually anyone — man or woman, vegetarian or vegans, mom on mothers day, dad on fathers day, best kitchen and herb seeds for planting indoors or housewarming present. Our indoor herb garden kit grows perfectly on a windowsill, in an apartment or condominium, in a personal outdoor greenhouse, or in your home window sill, balcony or even countertop.
  • Bring Your Kitchen To Life! – Plant seeds for indoor gardening, because every kitchen looks better with a window herb garden. Our decorative indoor herb kit with heirloom seeds is a unique way to add food to your planters and spice up your mealtime with a little gourmet flavor from your own home grow kits!
  • Herb Seeds for Planting Indoors Kit – It’s not only a great and unique gift, but this herb plants kit is also a fun everyday activity for the whole family. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first time using herb seeds for planting indoors, or you’re already a skilled gardener, these herb plants will bring taste to your dishes, color to your kitchen and joy to your table.

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Premium Soil Mix

Sunshine Organic Growing Mix 3 cu. ft.

Sunshine Organic Growing Mix 3 cu. ft.

Sun Gro Horticulture Distribution I

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Self Watering Kit

8 Herb Garden Kit – Non-Toxic BPA-Free Pots, Organic Seeds & Complete Growing Set – Elegant Indoor Herb Planter for Kitchen, Unique Housewarming & Birthday Gifts for Women, Mom, Retirement

8 Herb Garden Kit - Non-Toxic BPA-Free Pots, Organic Seeds & Complete Growing Set - Elegant Indoor Herb Planter for Kitchen, Unique Housewarming & Birthday Gifts for Women, Mom, Retirement

PLANTMEW
  • 🌱 Fresh & Flavorful 8-Herb Indoor Garden Kit: Grow a thriving windowsill garden with 8 culinary favorites: Basil, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Oregano, Parsley, Peppermint, and Dill. Kit includes durable BPA-free pots, nutrient-enriched soil discs, wooden plant markers, and an easy-to-follow growing guide – everything needed for success from seed to harvest.
  • 🎁 The Thoughtful Gift That Keeps Growing: Perfect as a birthday, housewarming, or retirement gift for the special women in your life. This beautifully presented set makes a unique present for moms, wives, and friends who enjoy cooking, gardening, or home decor.
  • ✋ No Gardening Experience Needed: Our beginner-friendly kit features clear illustrated instructions and specially formulated seed-starting soil that ensures high germination rates. Watch your herb garden flourish with minimal effort!
  • 💦 Smart Self-Watering Design: Includes drip tray equipped pots and moisture-retaining soil mix to prevent over/under watering. The compact size fits perfectly on kitchen windowsills, desks, or countertops.
  • 👩🍳 Elevate Your Home Cooking: Enjoy the convenience of fresh-picked herbs anytime! Add aromatic basil to pasta, fragrant rosemary to roasted meats, or soothing peppermint to teas – all grown right in your home.

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Easy Alfalfa Sprouts

Nature Jims Sprouts Alfalfa Seeds – Non-GMO Organic Sprout Growing Kit for Planting – Premium Resealable Bag for Fresh Homegrown Sprouting Seeds – Rich in Nutrients, Vitamins, Fiber & Minerals – 16oz

Nature Jims Sprouts Alfalfa Seeds – Non-GMO Organic Sprout Growing Kit for Planting – Premium Resealable Bag for Fresh Homegrown Sprouting Seeds – Rich in Nutrients, Vitamins, Fiber & Minerals – 16oz

Nature Jims Sprouts
  • GROW NUTRIENT-RICH ALFALFA SPROUTS AT HOME: Use our alfalfa sprouting seeds for planting to cultivate fresh, fiber-packed alfalfa seed, helping you enjoy a nutritious and easy home sprouts growing kit experience.
  • NON-GMO SPROUT SEEDS FOR PLANTING: Our alfalfa seeds are non-GMO and made without additives or fillers, making them a great choice for your organic sprouts grow kit to produce fresh, flavorful sprouts any time of year.
  • EASY SPROUTING PROCESS FOR BEGINNERS: Whether you’re starting your first sprouts grow kit like our alfalfa seeds or expanding your indoor gardening routine, our step-by-step instructions make it simple to grow tasty sprouts with minimal effort.
  • FRESHEN MEALS WITH HOME-GROWN ALFALFA SPROUTS: Elevate your salads, sandwiches, and wraps with crisp, homegrown sprouts from alfalfa seeds. These fresh organic sprouting seeds deliver great flavor and added nutrition to any dish.
  • CONVENIENT STORAGE TO KEEP ORGANIC ALFALFA SEEDS FRESH: Our alfalfa sprouting seeds for planting come in a resealable pouch designed to preserve freshness, so your sprouts growing kit is ready to use whenever you want a healthy, homegrown harvest.

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Corn Free Feed

New Country Organics | Pastured Perfect Grower/Broiler Feed for Growing Chickens | Corn-Free and Soy-Free | 19% Protein | Certified Organic and Non-GMO | 40 lbs

New Country Organics | Pastured Perfect Grower/Broiler Feed for Growing Chickens | Corn-Free and Soy-Free | 19% Protein | Certified Organic and Non-GMO | 40 lbs

New Country Organics
  • A Complete Feed Specifically Balanced for Pastured Poultry
  • Simpler Formulation with Fewer Ingredients
  • Great Value and Corn Free

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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 Organic Growing Medium

Nutrient Profile & Soil Health

  • Choose media that provides a balanced mix of macronutrients (N‑P‑K) and essential micronutrients for plant growth
  • Look for added organic amendments such as compost, bone meal, or kelp that improve soil fertility
  • Prefer products that include beneficial microbes or probiotics to enhance nutrient uptake
  • Verify that the medium supplies sufficient organic matter to improve water retention and structure

Certification & Sustainability

  • Select growing media certified organic by reputable programs such as OMRI or USDA Organic
  • Check for non‑GMO verification to ensure seed and ingredient integrity
  • Prefer products sourced from farms that avoid prohibited pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics
  • Consider the environmental impact of packaging, opting for recyclable or biodegradable containers

Application Flexibility

  • Ensure the medium works for your intended use—seed starting, container gardening, or raised beds
  • Look for formulations suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments, including low‑starch options for hot climates
  • Check if the product is safe for use with edible crops such as herbs, vegetables, and sprouts
  • Confirm that the medium can be mixed with other organic inputs without altering its performance

Ease of Use & Convenience

  • Choose granular or pre‑measured mixes that are easy to apply and distribute evenly
  • Prefer media that comes in manageable packaging sizes for storage and handling
  • Look for products that include clear usage instructions and recommended application rates
  • Select options with added features such as self‑watering pots or moisture‑retaining additives for hassle‑free care

Performance & Results

  • Read reviews or test data that demonstrate consistent plant vigor, stronger roots, and higher yields
  • Check for evidence of rapid nutrient release that supports fast‑growing seedlings and microgreens
  • Prefer media that promotes healthy foliage, abundant blooms, and robust fruit development
  • Ensure the growing medium maintains its structure over time without compaction or nutrient lock‑out

FAQs

What should I look for in an organic growing medium for plants?

Check for OMRI certification, which guarantees the product meets strict organic standards. Look for a balanced blend of macro‑nutrients, micronutrients, and beneficial microbes that release nutrients over time. A good medium should also improve soil structure and retain moisture without becoming water‑logged.

How does Burpee Natural Purpose Granular compare to Sunshine Organic Growing Mix?

Burpee’s granular formula provides a quick‑release nutrient boost that lasts up to three months, while Sunshine’s mix is a pre‑blended soil amendment designed for immediate use in containers. Burpee is OMRI‑listed and includes calcium and beneficial microbes, whereas Sunshine’s ingredient list is less detailed but offers a larger volume for garden beds. Choose Burpee for precise feeding and Sunshine for bulk soil improvement.

Are the organic milks from Horizon suitable for growing seedlings?

While Horizon Organic Growing Years milks are nutritious for children, they are not intended as a plant growing medium and lack the mineral balance plants need. Their high protein and calcium content could actually hinder seed germination if used as a soil amendment. Stick to certified plant foods or composted organic matter for seedling health.

Which product offers the best value for indoor herb gardening?

The 8 Herb Garden Kit with BPA‑free pots and self‑watering design provides a complete system for a low upfront cost, making it ideal for beginners. The Organic Herb Garden Kit from Oregon includes premium USDA‑organic seeds and compostable peat pots, but it’s slightly pricier and lacks a built‑in watering tray. If convenience and budget are priorities, the 8‑herb kit delivers the best overall value.

What are the key differences between New Country Organics Grower Feed and Pastured Perfect Grower Feed for chickens?

Grower Feed is formulated with 2 % lower protein and added probiotics to support steady weight gain in hot climates, while Pastured Perfect focuses on a simplified, corn‑free formula with fewer ingredients for pasture‑raised birds. Both are certified organic, but Grower Feed includes climate‑specific adaptations, whereas Pastured Perfect emphasizes cost‑effectiveness. Choose Grower Feed for climate control and Pastured Perfect for a budget‑friendly, all‑organic option.

Can sprouting seeds like Nature Jims Broccoli or Alfalfa replace traditional soil for growing plants?

Sprouting seeds are designed for hydroponic‑style growth of microgreens and sprouts, not for establishing a root system in soil. They provide a quick source of nutrients for human consumption but lack the structural support and long‑term nutrient release needed for larger plants. Use them for salads and smoothies, and rely on organic soil mixes for garden planting.

How important is the protein content in organic chicken feed for growing broilers?

Protein drives muscle development in broilers, so a feed with a balanced protein level (typically 18–20 % for starter, 16–18 % for grower) is essential. New Country Organics Grower Feed reduces protein by 2 % compared to starter feeds to prevent excessive weight gain and ensure healthy bone formation. Matching the feed stage to the bird’s age helps optimize growth and feed efficiency.

What factors should I consider when choosing between a granular plant food and a pre‑mixed growing medium?

Granular plant foods like Burpee’s are ideal for targeted feeding and can be applied throughout the growing season to replenish nutrients. Pre‑mixed growing mediums such as Sunshine Organic Growing Mix provide a ready‑to‑use base with built‑in fertility, reducing the need for additional fertilization. Decide based on your garden’s maintenance preferences: granular for flexibility, mixed medium for simplicity.

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