Comparison: Best Super Soil Mixes (Updated | Nov 11th)
If you’re tired of juggling fertilizers and nutrient schedules, super soil might just be your garden’s new best friend. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one delivers the biggest bang for your buck? We’ve dug deep (literally) to compare the top super soil mixes on the market, testing for texture, nutrient balance, and real-world results. Let’s find the perfect blend to take your grow game to the next level.
- Best for peat-free organic: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA
- Best for gnats-resistant blend: Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix: Fertilized
- Best for chunky cereal mix: Forbidden Cereal Soilless Houseplant Potting Mix – Chunky Soil for Aroid Tropical Plants & Flowers – 8 Ingredients
- Best for microbe-infused power: FoxFarm Happy Frog Potting Soil
- Best for all-in-one supersoil: California Super Soil Premium 100% Organic Autoflower Super Soil – 18+ Nutrient Blend – Garden Soil for Indoor Grow Kit – 6Lbs Bag – Grows 2 Plants
- Best for worm casting rich: Brut Organic Potting Soil – 1CF
- Best for moisture control: Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix
- Best for organic outdoor boost: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for six-month feed: Miracle-Gro Potting Mix
- Best for fast-drain succulents: Miracle-Gro Cactus
Product Comparison: Best Super Soil Mixes
Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA
- 100% Organic and Peat-Free: Our potting mix is 100% organic and peat-free—made from upcycled plant matter and wood fines from across the U.S. No imported peat, just better soil with a lighter carbon footprint.
- All-Purpose: Our premium potting mix is versatile and well-suited for herbs, veggies, fruits, and flowers. It caters to all your gardening needs, and is proudly made in the USA.
- Better Moisture Control and pH Balance: Our premium soil blend incorporates yucca extract for moisture control and dolomitic limestone for pH balancing.
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee: Not satisfied? Let us know. Our support team will get you growing with a replacement or refund—no questions asked.
- GROWONEGIVEONE — Share a photo of your growing garden and we’ll donate a Kids Grow Kit and STEM elementary school curriculum to a classroom of your choice.
Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix: Fertilized, Perlite Soil for Indoor Gardening, Designed to Be Less Prone to Gnats, 4 qt.
- Growing indoors is easy under the right conditions; Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix combines key elements plants need to thrive
- Recommended for growing beautiful indoor houseplant varieties like Pothos, Spider Plants, Monstera, Philodendron, English Ivy and more
- This indoor plant soil is less prone to gnats, thanks to the combination of perlite, sphagnum and peat moss that’s just right
- Certified by the Mulch & Soil Council as a quality product in compliance with industry standards
- A single 4-qt bag fills an 8-inch container; for even more spectacular results, start regular feedings with Miracle-Gro Plant Food 30 days after planting
Forbidden Cereal Soilless Houseplant Potting Mix – Chunky Soil for Aroid Tropical Plants & Flowers – 8 Ingredients, No More Overwatering, Versatile Moisture Retention, Peat Free & Organic – 6.5QT Bag
- Compatible with your Favourite Plants: Our potting mix is optimized to grow and support all indoor & outdoor potted plants. Popular plants include Monstera, Pothos, Snake Plant, ZZ Plant, Fiddle Leaf Fig, Philodendron, Peace Lily, Alocasia, Anthurium, Dracaena, Hoya, Orchids, Spider Plant, Aloe Vera, Rubber Plants, Diffenbachia and more!
- Professional Grade Ingredients: Forbidden Cereal is made with 8 Organic Premium Grade amendments. We use hand sorted, heat treated Douglas Fir bark, also called Orchid Bark. Fine & Coarse Perlite, Triple Washed Coco Coir, Coconut Fiber and Coco Chips. Horticultural Charcoal also known as Biochar. Ultra rich Earth Worms Castings, Natural looking LECA Expanded Clay Balls and New Zealand Sphagnum Moss.
- Overwatering is Forbidden: We formulated our mix to be Earth’s Chunkiest Potting mix! Not only does it look like a delicious bowl of cereal, the super chunkiness serves an important purpose. It allows water to flow freely through your container garden and does not restrict root growth which increases the amount of air your roots have access to. Thus preventing root rot, yellow leaves, plant deficiencies and slow plant growth.
- Separated Sphagnum Moss: We blend the mix for even distribution of all components except the moss, which we thoughtfully layer on top. This allows you to customize its use, whether as a moisture-retaining topper, moisture retention at the root level, a propagation aid, or something else entirely, delivering unmatched functionality and consistency that’s one-of-a-kind.
- No Dirt Bags Allowed: We replaced all Soils and Peat Moss with ingredients that are renewable. Peat and Soil retain substantial moisture, often worsening the common challenges gardeners face. Our unique formulation buffers water to a neutral Ph maximizing nutrient absorption from all fertilizers and plant food.
FoxFarm Happy Frog Potting Soil, 12qt – for Indoor/Outdoor Container Plants, Improves Root Efficiency, pH Adjusted for Optimal Nutrient Uptake – Contains Microbes and Humic Acids
- TOP-TIER SOIL FOR BOUNTIFUL GROWTH: FoxFarm organic potting soil for indoor plants is a blend that boosts both indoor and outdoor gardening. Our planting soil enhances root development and plant health, making it a top choice for flourishing growth
- MICROBE-INFUSED SOIL FOR SUPER ROOTS: Enriched with soil microbes, mycorrhizal fungi, and humic acids, this indoor potting soil for house plants promotes efficient nutrient uptake and boosts root growth by improving root systems and plant vitality
- ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS FOR THRIVING PLANTS: The garden soil for outdoor plants contains bat guano, earthworm castings, and aged forest products, all essential for enhanced nutrient levels, soil structure, and soil vital organic matter for healthy plants
- OPTIMAL SOIL FOR LUSH CONTAINER BLOOM: Ideal for container gardens, fox farms happy frog potting soil for vegetables’ balanced texture and content is suitable for a wide range of plants including flowers, vegetables, shrubs, and houseplants
- READY-TO-USE CONVENIENT SOIL: Simply fill your container with garden fertilizer houseplant potting soil indoor plants, leaving 1 inch below the rim. Water thoroughly after planting. For best results, supplement growth all the seasons with Fox Farm fertilizers
California Super Soil Premium 100% Organic Autoflower Super Soil – 18+ Nutrient Blend – Garden Soil for Indoor Grow Kit – 6Lbs Bag – Grows 2 Plants
- PREMIUM SOIL CONCENTRATE: Soil is one of the most important aspects to any grow. Just like it is for any other organism, a balanced diet is extremely important for your plant’s health. Optimal nutrient ratios and concentrations in California Super Soil nourish your plant and allow for a bountiful, organic grow!
- STOP TRYING, START GROWING: California Super Soil is all you need for the best growing results! All ingredients are 100% organic, designed on a molecular level to be the perfect growing medium. You will never have to add any nutrients or worry about management all the way from seed to harvest. One-step solution to growing bigger, healthier plants with robust root structures.
- CONCENTRATED STRENGTH: Mix the organic concentrate with your soil medium to give your plants what they need to flourish. With just a single 5 lb. bag, you can create up to 30 gallons of Living Super Soil! 100% more concentrated than leading brands with active microbes, shown to increase plant uptake of vital nutrients, such as phosphorus.
- LIVING SOIL TECHNOLOGY: Our concentrate is fermented, allowing microbes to begin breaking down amendments into forms that can be absorbed by your plants. Multiple scientific studies have shown these microbes increase plant uptake of vital nutrients, such as phosphorus, and improve soil aggregation. This regulation also helps prevent any potential nutrient burn to your plant!
- INDOOR PLANT SOIL KIT INCLUDES: 5 lbs of Premium Soil Concentrate & Rapid Rooters | Check out our full inventory of items that work hand in hand with our soil like our hydroponics growing system and other hydroponics supplies for your indoor gardening
Brut Organic Potting Soil – 1CF, Premium Plant Soil with Organic Worm Castings, Trace Minerals & Perlite – Chemical-Free, Filler-Free – Ideal Potting Mix for Indoor & Outdoor Plants – 1pck
- NATURAL, ORGANIC INGREDIENTS: Made of 100% organic ingredients, this organic potting soil is free from synthetic fertilizers and chemicals. This planting soil gives your plants everything they need. Perfect for soil for indoor plants and outdoor potting soil.
- MICROBE-RICH SOIL: Packed with microbe-rich worm castings and trace minerals like Azomite and kelp, this organic soil feeds plants directly from the root level. Whether you’re growing vegetables, herbs, or flowers, Brut provides the nutrients they need.
- FOR ALL TYPES OF GARDENS: Brut Potting Soil is versatile, perfect as indoor plant soil. It works great for annuals, perennials, & herb plants. This all-purpose potting soil mix makes gardening easy for all plant types from indoor plants to outdoor gardens.
- PURE, FILLER-FREE: Say goodbye to the worry of unknown ingredients. It is pure and filler-free, with no sticks, wood chips, or artificial additives. Brut Organic Potting mix is naturally pH balanced between 6.3 and 6.5, making it perfect for most plants.
- CERTIFIED ORGANIC: Our Potting Soil is OMRI listed, representing true organic excellence and bringing the power of nature’s nutrients. Eco sustainable resorce for your gardening enjoyment!
Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix, For Container Plants, Protects against Over- and Under-Watering, 8 qt., 2-Pack
- Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix feeds plants for up to 6 months and Grows Plants Twice As Big! (vs unfed plants)
- This potting medium protects against over and under watering; also absorbs up to 33% more water than basic potting soil* with exclusive AquaCoir Formula (*soil that does not contain sphagnum peat moss, coir, and wetting agent)
- Use this gardening product with all types of container plants, including flowers, vegetables, annuals, perennials, and shrubs
- To use this potting soil, fill a container about 1/3 full with potting mix; place your plant in the pot and cover with more mix
- This bundle comes with two 8 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix; each fills two 8-inch containers (exact amounts may vary depending on the size of the root ball)
Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix, for Outdoor Container Plants, Contains Quick-Release Natural Fertilizer, OMRI Listed, 16 qt.
- Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix contains a quick-release natural fertilizer and also feeds plants for up to 2 months
- This potting mix is made with responsibly sourced peat (one hundred percent of peat sourced from certified producers)
- Use this organic potting mix with all types of outdoor container plants, including flowers, vegetables, herbs, annuals, and perennials
- To plant in pots, fill the container partially full with potting mix, place the plant in the pot after loosening the root ball, cover with more mix and water thoroughly
- One 16 qt. bag of Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix fills one 12-inch container (amounts may vary based on the size of the root ball)
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, For Container Plants, Flowers, Vegetables, Annuals, Perennials, Shrubs, Feeds for up to 6 Months, 16. qt., 2-Pack
- Miracle-Gro Potting Mix feeds container plants for up to 6 months so you get more blooms for more color (vs. unfed plants)
- How to use: To use this potting medium, fill a container about 1/3 full with potting mix, place your plant in the soil, and fill the rest of the pot, pressing lightly
- What’s included: This bundles includes two 16 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, each able to fill one 12-inch container (exact amounts may vary based on root ball size)
- Where to Use: Use this home gardening product with all types of container plants, including annual and perennial flowers, vegetables, herbs and shrubs
- This potting soil mix Grows Plants Twice As Big (vs. unfed plants)
Miracle-Gro Cactus, Palm and Citrus Potting Mix, for Indoor or Outdoor Potted Plants, Great for Succulents, 8 qt., 2-Pack
- Miracle-Gro Cactus, Palm & Citrus Potting Mix features a fast-draining formula and is enriched with Miracle-Gro Plant Food
- This fast-draining formula is blended to help promote successful growing of cacti, potted palms, citrus, and other succulents
- This cactus potting mix is designed for indoor and outdoor container plants, including cacti, palm plants, citrus trees, and succulents
- To use this succulent soil mix, fill a pot with a drainage hole 1/3 full of mix, top with more mix after placing plant, and press lightly
- This bundle includes two 8 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Cactus, Palm & Citrus Potting Mix, each able to fill two 8-inch containers (amounts may vary based on root ball size)
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
How do I choose between an organic super soil and a conventional potting mix?
Organic super soils, like California Super Soil Premium or Brut Organic, use 100% natural amendments and microbial inoculants that improve long‑term soil health. Conventional mixes, such as Miracle‑Gro Houseplant or Moisture Control, often include synthetic fertilizers for quick growth but may require more frequent feeding. Consider whether you prefer a low‑maintenance, environmentally friendly option (organic) or faster results with added nutrients (conventional).
Which mix offers the best moisture management for indoor plants?
Miracle‑Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix uses an AquaCoir formula that absorbs up to 33% more water and reduces both over‑ and under‑watering. Back to the Roots includes yucca extract for moisture regulation, while Forbidden Cereal’s chunky composition promotes excellent drainage and air flow, preventing root rot. If you want a set‑and‑forget solution, the Moisture Control blend is the most advanced for water retention.
What are the key differences in nutrient content among these products?
FoxFarm Happy Frog and Brut Organic both contain high‑nutrient organic amendments like bat guano, worm castings, and kelp, providing a balanced nutrient profile for sustained growth. Miracle‑Gro Houseplant and Cactus mixes include a built‑in fertilizer that feeds plants for up to six months, but they rely on synthetic nutrients. California Super Soil is a concentrate that, when mixed, creates a living soil rich in microbes and phosphorus without any added fertilizers.
Is there a noticeable price‑to‑volume advantage with any of the mixes?
California Super Soil’s 5‑lb concentrate can be mixed to produce up to 30 gallons of super soil, offering a high volume for a relatively low cost per gallon. Back to the Roots provides a 12‑quart (3‑gallon) bag at a modest price, making it economical for small indoor gardens. Miracle‑Gro bundles (two 16‑qt bags) give a larger total volume but at a higher overall price, which may be justified by the built‑in fertilizer.
Which product is most suitable for a beginner growing a variety of houseplants?
Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix is all‑purpose, peat‑free, and comes with a satisfaction guarantee, making it low‑risk for new growers. Miracle‑Gro Houseplant Mix also targets beginners with a ready‑to‑use formula and reduced gnats. Both provide easy‑to‑follow instructions and balanced nutrients without the need for additional amendments.
How important is the presence of beneficial microbes in a potting mix?
Beneficial microbes, like mycorrhizal fungi and bacteria, improve nutrient uptake, root development, and disease resistance. FoxFarm Happy Frog and Brut Organic explicitly list microbe‑rich ingredients such as worm castings and mycorrhizae, while California Super Soil’s fermented concentrate activates microbes before use. Choosing a mix with active microbes can lead to healthier, more vigorous plants over time.
Can I use a super soil mix for both indoor and outdoor container gardening?
Yes, many of the listed mixes are versatile; FoxFarm Happy Frog, Brut Organic, and Back to the Roots are formulated for both indoor and outdoor use. However, specialized mixes like Miracle‑Gro Cactus, Palm & Citrus are optimized for fast‑draining conditions typical of succulents and may not provide the moisture retention needed for shade‑loving outdoor vegetables. Assess the specific water and nutrient needs of your plants before selecting a mix.
What added value features should I look for when comparing these mixes?
Beyond basic soil composition, consider features such as built‑in fertilizers (Miracle‑Gro blends), sustainability claims (Back to the Roots’ peat‑free formula), and bonus accessories (California Super Soil includes rapid rooters). Some brands also offer satisfaction guarantees or community programs, like Back to the Roots’ Kids Grow Kit donation, which can enhance the overall purchase experience. These extras can tip the balance when the core soil performance is comparable.