Comparison: Best 100 Organic Potting Soil (Updated | Nov 11th)
With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Is it rich enough? Does it drain well? Will your tomatoes actually taste like tomatoes again? We’ve dug deep (pun intended) to compare top organic potting soils, testing for texture, nutrients, and real results. No synthetic shortcuts, just honest dirt talk. Let’s find the perfect mix that helps your garden thrive—naturally.
- Best for peat-free all-purpose: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA
- Best for indoor root boost: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA
- Best for quick-release feed: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for water balance guard: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for expanding coir volume: Back to the Roots Organic Coir
- Best for worm castings boost: Brut Organic Potting Soil – 1CF
- Best for 4x expandable supersoil: Compressed Organic Potting Soil: 100% Organic
- Best for fiddle leaf formula: 100% Organic Fiddle Leaf Fig Soil – Optimally-Draining Potting Mix for Healthy Roots
- Best for vermiculite aeration boost: Burpee Organic Horticultural Add to Potting Soil | Ideal for Seed Starting
Product Comparison: Best 100 Organic Potting Soil
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.
Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA
- 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
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 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 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)
Back to the Roots Organic Coir, 51 Quart Expanding Soil, Great for Seeds and Potting
- A balanced pH, which means it’s truly all-purpose. Use alone or as an amendment for anything in a pot or in the ground — vegetables, flowers, herbs, and even starting seeds.
- Expands to over 2 cubic feet
- Peat Free OMRI Listed, assuring organic production, handling, and processing
- 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE: If you are not satisfied or have any issues with this Organic Coconut Coir, just shoot us a note and our dedicacted customer support team will make sure we get you growing or send you a refund/replacement.
- GROWONEGIVEONE — Share a photo of your growing garden and we’ll donate a Grow Kit and STEM elementary school curriculum to a classroom of your choice.
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!
Compressed Organic Potting Soil: 100% Organic, Expands Up to 4X with Water, Nutrient-Dense Plant Food Derived from Worm Castings, Types of Plants, Kid & Pet Safe (Two 2 lb Bags)
- NEW PACKAGE – Same Amazing Product that Plants & Customers LOVE!
- A LITTLE DOES A LOT – Easy to use compressed soil granules quickly expand up to 4X and make up to 3 gallons of soil. Light, compact, easy to carry, resealable bag saves space.
- NOURISH & SEE THEM FLOURISH – Packed with every essential nutrient plus 55+ trace minerals, this concentrated super soil feeds and grows strong beautiful vibrant plants better than ever!
- FAST ACTING & LONG LASTING – Easy to wet and stays moist 3X longer. Living soil gets water, air and nutrients to roots on demand. Perfect for all seeds, starts, transplants, containers, raised beds and gardens!
- TRULY ORGANIC YOU CAN TRUST – 100% natural ground coconut coir, worm castings, compost, humic acids, amino acids, kelp and beneficial GroBiotics including mycorrhizae give your soil, flower, vegetable, herb, fruit, tree, shrub, raised bed, outdoor or indoor potted house plants and more a super-boost.
100% Organic Fiddle Leaf Fig Soil – Optimally-Draining Potting Mix for Healthy Roots, Fewer Brown Spots & Faster Growth | Enriched with Biochar & Bark | Made in USA | Large 7.5L Bag
- 🌱 100% ORGANIC, NUTRIENT-RICH BLEND FOR FASTER GROWTH Specially formulated for fiddle leaf figs and other indoor trees, this premium chunky, airy mix uses aged bark, green compost, and biochar to nourish plants naturally without chemical buildup—helping prevent common issues like brown spots, yellow leaves, and leaf drop.
- 🌿 FOSTERS STRONG ROOTS & VIBRANT FOLIAGE Improves soil structure and nutrient retention to promote lush, healthy leaves and sturdy stems. This breathable blend protects sensitive roots from soggy soil and encourages vibrant, glossy foliage.
- 💦 PROTECTS AGAINST OVER- & UNDER-WATERING Designed for optimal drainage and moisture retention, this fast-draining, lightweight potting mix keeps roots hydrated but never waterlogged—reducing the risk of root rot while supporting long-term plant health.
- ⭐ SUSTAINABLY MADE IN THE USA Blended in small batches by a small family business in Oregon using locally sourced, eco-friendly ingredients, our soil mix is treated to deter harmful garden visitors—helping reduce the risk of fungus gnats—and packaged in a resealable bag to lock in freshness and quality.
- 🌳 PERFECT FOR ALL FICUS & TROPICAL HOUSEPLANTS This rich organic blend naturally improves soil aeration and root penetration, making it ideal for fiddle leaf fig, ficus audrey, rubber tree, weeping fig, ficus microcarpa, and other tropical houseplants that thrive in chunky, chemical-free soils designed to keep roots healthy.
Burpee Organic Horticultural Add to Potting Soil | Ideal for Seed Starting, Water Retention and Plant Propagation | 100% Natural | 8 Quart, 1-Pack, Vermiculite (8qt)
- LOOSEN HEAVY SOIL: Use organic vermiculite for plants to promote better aeration and root growth or as a component in synthetic planting media. This natural, sterile matter is perfect for storing begonia, canna, caladium and dahlia bulbs before planting.
- IMPROVE MOISTURE RETENTION: This fine grade lightweight soil amendment enhances water retention, binds nutrients and facilitates nutrient exchange promoting faster seedling and transplant root growth. Great addition to potting soil for indoor and outdoor plants.
- ADD TO POTTING MIX: Vermiculite improves drainage and aeration in potting mixes for container gardens, leading to healthier plants and lush blooms. Helps to condition the soil and promote water retention, which in turn fuels growth of vegetables, flowers, herbs and more.
- ORGANIC CERTIFIED: OMRI Listed for organic gardening use. Burpee Vermiculite is 100% natural and pure. It’s the perfect soil amendment for growing an organic vegetable garden, herb garden or naturally beautiful flower garden. Safe and multi-purpose. 8-quart bag.
- 100% GUARANTEED: Burpee is committed to the success of all gardeners. We treat each order with care to ensure healthy seeds, plants, soil mixes and gardening supplies are sent in excellent condition. Loved by gardens and trusted by gardeners, Burpee has been introducing fresh garden breakthroughs since 1876. Burpee offers only the highest quality, non-GMO seeds, hand-picked by expert horticulturalists.
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
What factors should I consider when choosing an organic potting mix for indoor versus outdoor use?
Look at the mix’s moisture‑retention properties, pH balance, and any additives that target specific environments, such as yucca extract for indoor humidity control or quick‑release fertilizers for outdoor containers. Also check if the product is peat‑free, which can affect drainage and sustainability, and whether it includes pest‑deterrent ingredients that are useful for indoor plants. Finally, compare the recommended plant types—some mixes are all‑purpose, while others are formulated for specific crops like herbs or tropical houseplants.
How does Back to the Roots’ 100% Organic Potting Mix differ from its Indoor version?
Both blends are peat‑free and contain yucca extract for moisture control, but the Indoor mix adds a mycorrhizal boost to enhance root development and is formulated to reduce indoor gnats. The standard Potting Mix is marketed as an all‑purpose soil for herbs, veggies, fruits, and flowers, while the Indoor version emphasizes pet‑safe, low‑gnat characteristics. The core ingredients are similar, yet the indoor formula tailors nutrient uptake for confined spaces.
Is Miracle‑Gro’s organic mix a good value compared to other brands?
Miracle‑Gro offers 16‑quart bags that fill a 12‑inch container, providing a clear volume‑to‑container ratio that helps gardeners estimate coverage. Its mixes include a quick‑release natural fertilizer that feeds plants for up to two months, which can reduce the need for supplemental feeding. When compared to smaller‑volume products like Back to the Roots’ 12‑quart bags, Miracle‑Gro’s larger size may deliver better cost per cubic foot, especially for outdoor gardeners needing more soil.
Which product offers the best moisture control and pH balance?
Back to the Roots’ premium potting mix highlights yucca extract for moisture regulation and dolomitic limestone for pH balancing, making it a strong contender for consistent water retention. Miracle‑Gro’s Indoor mix also includes a blend of peat, coir, and limestone, providing similar pH stability, but its moisture‑control relies more on the peat component. Overall, the Back to the Roots blend emphasizes both moisture and pH in a peat‑free formulation, which can be advantageous for environmentally conscious growers.
Are there any pet‑safe or gnat‑resistant options among these mixes?
Yes, the Back to the Roots Indoor Potting Mix is marketed as safe for pets and people and is less prone to indoor gnats because it omits bark and compost. Miracle‑Gro’s Indoor mix also notes reduced pest issues due to its sterile formulation. For gardeners concerned about insects, choosing a mix that explicitly mentions gnat resistance or pet safety can provide peace of mind.
How do the nutrient sources like worm castings and mycorrhizae compare across the selections?
Brut Organic Potting Soil stands out with microbe‑rich worm castings, Azomite, and kelp, delivering a broad spectrum of trace minerals directly at the root zone. Back to the Roots mixes include yucca extract and mycorrhizal fungi for natural root‑boosting, while Miracle‑Gro relies on a quick‑release natural fertilizer rather than organic amendments. If you prioritize living soil microbes, Brut’s blend offers the most diverse organic nutrient profile.
What are the advantages of using compressed or expanding soils like the Compressed Organic Potting Soil?
Compressed soils expand up to four times with water, making them lightweight and easy to transport, which is ideal for gardeners with limited storage space. They also contain a concentrated mix of coconut coir, worm castings, humic acids, and beneficial microbes, delivering nutrients efficiently once expanded. This format can be especially useful for seed starting or small‑scale container gardening where precise volume control matters.
How important is the source of peat or peat‑free status when evaluating organic mixes?
Peat‑free mixes, like those from Back to the Roots, reduce carbon footprint and avoid the environmental impact of peat extraction, appealing to eco‑conscious gardeners. However, mixes that use responsibly sourced peat, such as Miracle‑Gro’s certified peat, can still offer excellent water‑holding capacity and aeration when sustainability certifications are in place. The decision hinges on personal priorities: if minimizing environmental impact is key, choose peat‑free; if performance and proven water retention are paramount, responsibly sourced peat remains a viable option.