Comparison: Best Back To The Roots Organic Soil (Updated | Nov 11th)

The potting mix is a ready‑to‑use blend with yucca extract and dolomitic limestone for moisture control and pH balance, making it ideal for containers and raised beds. Coconut coir expands to over 2 cubic feet, is peat‑free and has a neutral pH, so it works well as a lightweight amendment or base for larger projects. Consider the volume you need and whether you prefer a pre‑balanced mix (potting mix) or a versatile, expandable medium (coir).

Compressed blocks, like the 12 qt and 6 qt versions, expand to a known volume and provide a consistent, peat‑free medium with balanced pH, which is perfect for germinating seeds. Bulk soils such as the 12 qt potting mix or 51 qt coir give you more flexibility for mixing with perlite or vermiculite but require you to measure and blend yourself. If you want convenience and uniformity for seed trays, blocks are the better choice.

The Succulent & Cacti Mix is formulated with aged bark, perlite, and horticultural sand to provide rapid drainage and aeration, which prevents root rot in drought‑tolerant plants. The all‑purpose potting mix retains more moisture and includes yucca extract for water control, making it suitable for herbs, vegetables, and most houseplants. Choose the cactus mix for species that require fast‑drying soil, and the all‑purpose mix for moisture‑loving plants.

Perlite is a lightweight, volcanic glass that increases aeration and drainage, helping roots receive oxygen and reducing the risk of root rot. It pairs especially well with the coconut coir, vermiculite, and the Succulent & Cacti Mix, but you can add it to any blend if you notice waterlogging. While not mandatory for every product, incorporating perlite often boosts overall plant health.

Worm castings add beneficial microbes and a slow‑release source of nutrients without the burn or odor of synthetic fertilizers, which is great for indoor containers. They can be mixed into any of the Back to the Roots soils to improve fertility and disease resistance. If you want a natural boost for seedlings or houseplants, castings are a valuable addition, though not strictly required.

The Premium Mulch is designed for raised‑bed applications, offering a larger volume and added gypsum for better water absorption, making it cost‑effective for extensive garden beds. The 12 qt potting mix is smaller and more suited for container gardening where space is limited. For big outdoor projects, the mulch gives you more soil for a lower price per cubic foot.

Larger packages generally lower the cost per quart and reduce packaging waste, which is ideal for gardeners with multiple beds or containers. Smaller sizes like the 6 qt block are convenient for beginners or limited‑space growers who want to test a product before buying in bulk. Evaluate your garden’s scale and how often you’ll need to replenish soil to pick the most economical size.

All Back to the Roots products come with a 100 % satisfaction guarantee, meaning you can get a replacement or refund if the soil doesn’t meet expectations, adding confidence to the purchase. The GrowOneGiveOne initiative lets you donate a gardening kit to a classroom by sharing a photo, which adds social value and may influence eco‑conscious shoppers. Together, these policies enhance both personal assurance and community impact.