Comparison: Best Vermont Organics Potting Mix (Updated | Nov 11th)

When it comes to premium potting mixes, Vermont Organics consistently earns praise—but is it really the best? Whether you’re repotting a fiddle-leaf fig or starting seedlings, choosing the right mix makes all the difference. Let’s find out which potting soil deserves a spot in your gardening routine.

Product Comparison: Best Vermont Organics Potting Mix

Peat-Free Blend

Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA

Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA

Back to the Roots
  • 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.

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Quick-Release Fertilizer

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, for Outdoor Container Plants, Contains Quick-Release Natural Fertilizer, OMRI Listed, 16 qt.

Miracle-Gro
  • 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)

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Indoor Moisture Guard

Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA

Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA

Back to the Roots
  • FORMULATED FOR INDOOR USE: Our Potting Mix contains organic yucca extract that aids in retaining moisture in the soil whichs keeps your indoor plants happy and healthy
  • ROOT-BOOSTING MYCORRHIZAE: This beneficial soil component provides your plants with a natural, organic way to boost their root development and nutrient uptake
  • ORGANIC AND PEAT-FREE: Our indoor potting mix helps reduce greenhouse emissions and environmental impact, making it a responsible choice for conscious consumers
  • BALANCING DOLOMITIC LIMESTONE: Balances the alkalinity and acidity levels of the soil, which ensures that your plants receive the necessary nutrients from the potting mix to grow healthy and strong
  • SAFE FOR PETS AND PEOPLE: Made without bark or compost, this potting mix is less prone to indoor gnats and pests, making it a worry-free option for your indoor gardening needs

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Water Balance Tech

Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix, Protects Against Over and Under Watering, for Indoor Container Plants, Houseplants and Starter Plants, OMRI Listed, 16 qt.

Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix, Protects Against Over and Under Watering, for Indoor Container Plants, Houseplants and Starter Plants, OMRI Listed, 16 qt.

Miracle-Gro
  • Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix protects indoor plants against over and under watering
  • This organic container mix is made with responsibly sourced sphagnum peat moss (one hundred percent of peat sourced from certified producers), coir, and quick-start natural fertilizer
  • Use this potting medium with all types of indoor container plants, including houseplants and herbs; also great for seed starting
  • To plant seeds, fill container with potting mix, follow seed package planting directions, and water; To use with transplants, partially fill container, place plant after loosening the root ball, cover with more mix pressing lightly, and water
  • One 16 qt. bag of Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix fills one 12-inch container (amounts may vary based on the size of the root ball)

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Earthworm Enriched

Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix – All Natural Potting Mix For All Indoor & Outdoor Containers Including Herbs & Vegetables. For Organic Gardening, 2 Cubic Foot bag. Pack of1

Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix - All Natural Potting Mix For All Indoor & Outdoor Containers Including Herbs & Vegetables. For Organic Gardening, 2 Cubic Foot bag. Pack of1

Espoma
  • FOR USE ON: Not just an indoor potting soil, this can also be used as a potting soil for outdoor plants and is a great soil mix for vegetables, herbs & all other container plants & flowers.
  • CONTAINS: This organic soil for plants & vegetables is a rich blend of sphagnum peat moss, humus & perlite enriched with earthworm castings, alfalfa meal, kelp meal & feather meal
  • MYCO-TONE: A proprietary blend of endo & ecto mycorrhizae.
  • WHEN TO USE: Any time planting containers, whether starting a new plant or transplanting into a larger container. Plants require regular re-potting and fresh planting soil for optimum growth
  • ORGANIC GARDENING: Contains a rich blend of only the finest natural ingredients. No synthetic plant foods or chemicals are used.

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Dual-Bag Value

Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix, for Outdoor Container Plants, Contains Quick-Release Natural Fertilizer, OMRI Listed, 16 qt., 2-Pack

Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix, for Outdoor Container Plants, Contains Quick-Release Natural Fertilizer, OMRI Listed, 16 qt., 2-Pack

Miracle-Gro
  • 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
  • This bundle includes two 16 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix; each fills one 12-inch container (amounts may vary based on the size of the root ball)

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Twin Indoor Packs

Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix, Protects Against Over and Under Watering, for Indoor Container Plants, Houseplants and Starter Plants, OMRI Listed, 16 qt., 2-Pack

Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix, Protects Against Over and Under Watering, for Indoor Container Plants, Houseplants and Starter Plants, OMRI Listed, 16 qt., 2-Pack

Miracle-Gro
  • Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix protects indoor plants against over and under watering
  • This organic container mix is made with responsibly sourced sphagnum peat moss (one hundred percent of peat sourced from certified producers), coir, and quick-start natural fertilizer
  • Use this potting medium with all types of indoor container plants, including houseplants and herbs; also great for seed starting
  • To plant seeds, fill container with potting mix, follow seed package planting directions, and water; To use with transplants, partially fill container, place plant after loosening the root ball, cover with more mix pressing lightly, and water
  • This bundle includes two 16 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix; each bag fills one 12-inch container (amounts may vary based on the size of the root ball)

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High-Volume Outdoor

Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix, for Outdoor Container Plants, Contains Quick-Release Natural Fertilizer, OMRI Listed, 25 qt.

Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix, for Outdoor Container Plants, Contains Quick-Release Natural Fertilizer, OMRI Listed, 25 qt.

Miracle-Gro
  • 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 25 qt. bag of Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix fills three 10-inch containers (amount may vary based on the size of the root ball)

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Compact Indoor Set

Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix, Protects Against Over and Under Watering, for Indoor Container Plants, Houseplants and Starter Plants, OMRI Listed, 8 qt., 2-Pack

Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix, Protects Against Over and Under Watering, for Indoor Container Plants, Houseplants and Starter Plants, OMRI Listed, 8 qt., 2-Pack

Miracle-Gro
  • Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix protects indoor plants against over and under watering
  • This organic container mix is made with responsibly sourced sphagnum peat moss (one hundred percent of peat sourced from certified producers), coir, and quick-start natural fertilizer
  • Use this potting medium with all types of indoor container plants, including houseplants and herbs; also great for seed starting
  • To plant seeds, fill container with potting mix, follow seed package planting directions, and water; To use with transplants, partially fill container, place plant after loosening the root ball, cover with more mix pressing lightly, and water
  • This bundle includes two 8 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix; each bag fills two 8-inch containers (amounts may vary based on the size of the root ball)

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Mycorrhiza Boost

Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix – All Natural Potting Mix For All Indoor & Outdoor Containers Including Herbs & Vegetables. For Organic Gardening, 8qt. bag. Pack of 1

Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix - All Natural Potting Mix For All Indoor & Outdoor Containers Including Herbs & Vegetables. For Organic Gardening, 8qt. bag. Pack of 1

Espoma
  • FOR USE ON: Not just an indoor potting soil, this can also be used as a potting soil for outdoor plants and is a great soil mix for vegetables, herbs & all other container plants & flowers.
  • CONTAINS: This organic soil for plants & vegetables is a rich blend of sphagnum peat moss, humus & perlite enriched with earthworm castings, alfalfa meal, kelp meal & feather meal
  • MYCO-TONE: A proprietary blend of endo & ecto mycorrhizae.
  • WHEN TO USE: Any time planting containers, whether starting a new plant or transplanting into a larger container. Plants require regular re-potting and fresh planting soil for optimum growth
  • ORGANIC GARDENING: Contains a rich blend of only the finest natural ingredients. No synthetic plant foods or chemicals are used.

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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 Vermont Organics Potting Mix

Organic Certification & Sustainability

  • Peat‑free blends reduce carbon footprint (Back to the Roots)
  • Miracle‑Gro uses responsibly sourced peat from certified producers
  • All mixes are certified organic and free of synthetic chemicals
  • Made in the USA supports local agriculture (Back to the Roots)

Moisture Management & Watering

  • Yucca extract helps retain moisture for consistent soil dampness (Back to the Roots)
  • Miracle‑Gro Indoor mix includes water‑regulating coir and peat blend
  • Dolomitic limestone balances pH, aiding water uptake
  • Reduced gnats and pests thanks to bark‑free formulation

Nutrient Content & Fertilizer

  • Miracle‑Gro provides a quick‑release natural fertilizer feeding up to 2 months
  • Back to the Roots includes root‑boosting mycorrhizae for nutrient absorption
  • Espoma mix enriches with earthworm castings, alfalfa, kelp, and feather meals
  • Balanced nutrient profile supports vegetables, herbs, and flowers

Indoor vs Outdoor Use

  • Back to the Roots Indoor mix is formulated specifically for houseplants
  • Miracle‑Gro Outdoor mix is designed for container gardens exposed to the elements
  • Espoma works for both indoor and outdoor applications
  • Consider container size: a 12‑qt bag typically fills a 12‑inch pot (Miracle‑Gro)

Additional Features & Value

  • Back to the Roots offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a give‑one program
  • Pet‑safe formulations lack bark and compost to deter gnats
  • Mycorrhizal inoculants improve root development across mixes
  • Packaging sizes range from 12‑qt to 25‑qt for various garden scales

FAQs

What should I look for when choosing an organic potting mix for indoor plants?

Focus on mixes that are peat‑free, contain moisture‑retaining agents like yucca extract, and include mycorrhizal fungi for root health. Back to the Roots Indoor Mix offers a peat‑free formula with dolomitic limestone for pH balance, while Miracle‑Gro Indoor Mix relies on peat and coir with a quick‑release fertilizer. Consider pet safety and gnat resistance; the Back to the Roots blend omits bark and compost, reducing pest problems.

How does a peat‑free mix compare to a peat‑based mix in terms of sustainability?

Peat‑free mixes, such as Back to the Roots, use upcycled plant material and wood fines, resulting in a lighter carbon footprint and no impact on peat bog ecosystems. Peat‑based mixes, like Miracle‑Gro, source peat from certified producers, which mitigates some environmental concerns but still involves peat extraction. If minimizing ecological impact is a priority, peat‑free options are generally the greener choice.

Which mix provides the longest lasting fertilizer boost for outdoor containers?

Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix includes a quick‑release natural fertilizer that feeds plants for up to two months, making it ideal for seasonal outdoor gardening. Back to the Roots Outdoor Mix does not contain added fertilizer but relies on balanced nutrients from its organic blend. For gardeners who prefer a built‑in feeding schedule, Miracle‑Gro offers the longer nutrient release.

Are there any differences in water management between the indoor mixes?

Back to the Roots Indoor Mix uses yucca extract to improve moisture control, helping prevent both over‑ and under‑watering. Miracle‑Gro Indoor Mix also protects against watering errors by combining peat, coir, and a starter fertilizer that retains moisture. Both mixes aim to simplify watering, but the yucca‑based system may provide slightly more consistent moisture levels.

What added benefits do mycorrhizal fungi provide, and which products include them?

Mycorrhizal fungi form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, enhancing nutrient uptake and improving drought tolerance. Back to the Roots Indoor Mix highlights a root‑boosting mycorrhizal component, while Espoma’s Organic Potting Soil Mix features a proprietary Myco‑Tone blend of endo‑ and ecto‑mycorrhizae. Selecting a mix with these fungi can lead to healthier, more vigorous growth.

How do price and value compare across the major brands?

Back to the Roots offers 12‑quart value packs at a competitive price, emphasizing organic, peat‑free ingredients and a satisfaction guarantee. Miracle‑Gro provides larger 16‑quart and bundle options that include built‑in fertilizer, often priced higher but delivering added feeding benefits. Espoma’s mixes are typically sold in similar volumes with a focus on rich organic amendments, positioning them as a premium yet balanced value choice.

Can I use the same potting mix for both indoor and outdoor plants?

While some mixes are formulated for specific environments, many organic blends work well in both settings. Back to the Roots offers separate indoor and outdoor formulations, each optimized for moisture and pH, but both are versatile for herbs, veggies, and flowers. Miracle‑Gro’s indoor and outdoor mixes differ mainly in fertilizer concentration, so you can choose the version that matches your plant’s exposure and feeding needs.

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