Comparison: Best Black Gold All Purpose Soil (Updated | Nov 11th)
We’ve dug into the dirt (literally) to compare top contenders, checking texture, nutrients, moisture control, and real garden results. Whether you’re potting plants or reviving your flower beds, we’ll help you find the soil that’s worth every penny—and every handful.
- Best for house plant boost: SunGro Black Gold All Purpose Potting Soil Fertilizer Mix for House Plants
- Best for organic 8-quart duo: Black Gold 1302040 8-Quart All Organic Potting Soil 2 Pack
- Best for fertilized 16-quart: Black Gold 1410102 16 QT U 16 Quart All Purpose Potting Soil With Fertilizer
- Best for pure organic mix: Natural & Organic Potting Mix
- Best for seedling starter: Black Gold Seedling Mix
- Best for earthworm enriched: SUNGRO HORTICULTURE Black Gold 1302040 16-Quart All Organic Potting Soil
- Best for 2-cuft all-purpose: Black Gold All Purpose Potting Soil 2cu ft
Product Comparison: Best Black Gold All Purpose Soil
SunGro Black Gold All Purpose Potting Soil Fertilizer Mix for House Plants, Vegetables, Herbs and More, 16 Quart Bag (4 Pack)
Black Gold 1302040 8-Quart All Organic Potting Soil 2 Pack
Black Gold 1410102 16 QT U 16 Quart All Purpose Potting Soil With Fertilizer
Black Gold Seedling Mix, 8 quart
- Black Gold Seedling Mix 8qt Listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute for the production of organic food and fiber
- This mix combines double screened Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss and other fine ingredients to give seedlings the aeration and moisture retention they need for strong development
- This product is made in United States
- Listed by the organic materials review institute for the production of organic food and fiber
- Combines double screened Canadian sphagnum peat moss and other fine ingredients to give seedlings the aeration and moisture retention they need for strong development
- Contains Canadian sphagnum peat moss, perlite, dolomite lime, and an organic wetting agent
- Use for germinating seeds in flats, pots, and plug trays
- 8-Quart
SUNGRO HORTICULTURE Black Gold 1302040 16-Quart All Organic Potting Soil
- Ideal for all container-grown flowers, herbs and vegetables
- Enriched with earthworm castings, perlite, pumice and organic fertilizer
- OMRI listed organic
- 16 quart bag
- Packaging may vary
- Listed by the organic materials review institute for the production of organic food and fiber
- Rich, loamy mix is one of the best for all gardening applications
- Perlite and pumice are added to ensure optimum pore and air space for sturdy growth
- Use in hanging baskets, patio containers, herb gardens, vegetable plantings, and anywhere you would like to use an organic soil
- Regionally formulated, western region only , Packaging may vary
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 the right Black Gold soil for indoor houseplants versus garden vegetables?
For houseplants, a lighter mix like the SunGro All Purpose Potting Soil with added fertilizer provides good moisture retention without becoming compact. Garden vegetables benefit from the 16‑quart All Purpose blend that includes earthworm castings and perlite for improved drainage and nutrient release. Check the product label for OMRI certification if you prefer certified organic blends.
Is there a cost advantage to buying the 2‑pack 8‑quart organic soil versus a single larger bag?
The 2‑pack 8‑quart All Organic Potting Soil often costs slightly more per quart but offers flexibility for smaller projects or storage space constraints. A single 16‑quart bag, like the SUNGRO Horticulture version, typically provides a lower price per volume, making it more economical for larger containers or multiple plants. Consider how much soil you realistically need before deciding.
What are the key differences in nutrient content between the Seedling Mix and the All Purpose mixes?
The Seedling Mix is formulated with double‑screened Canadian sphagnum peat moss and fine ingredients to give seedlings optimal aeration and moisture retention, but it contains minimal added fertilizer. All Purpose mixes, such as the Black Gold 16‑quart with fertilizer, include organic fertilizers, earthworm castings, and perlite for balanced nutrition throughout the plant’s life cycle. Choose Seedling Mix for early growth stages and switch to All Purpose for mature plants.
Do any of these soils contain synthetic chemicals that could affect organic gardening?
Both the Black Gold 8‑quart All Organic Potting Soil and the SUNGRO Horticulture 16‑quart All Organic blend are OMRI‑listed, meaning they meet organic standards and contain no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. The SunGro All Purpose Potting Soil with fertilizer includes organic nutrients but is not specifically labeled as OMRI‑certified, so it may contain minor synthetic additives. If strict organic compliance is essential, stick with the OMRI‑listed options.
How important is drainage in these potting soils, and which product excels at it?
Good drainage prevents root rot and promotes healthy root development, especially in containers. The Black Gold All Purpose Potting Soil 2 cu ft includes perlite and pumice, which enhance aeration and water flow. The Natural & Organic Potting Mix also emphasizes a balanced structure, but the SUNGRO Horticulture 16‑quart blend is noted for its superior drainage thanks to a higher proportion of coarse organic matter.
Can I mix different Black Gold soils together to customize my planting medium?
Yes, blending soils allows you to tailor texture, nutrient levels, and moisture retention to specific plant needs. For example, combining the Seedling Mix with a small amount of the All Purpose blend adds extra fertility without sacrificing the seedling‑friendly structure. Just ensure the final mix maintains adequate drainage and avoid over‑fertilizing by measuring proportions carefully.
What should I look for on the packaging to confirm the soil’s suitability for my region’s climate?
Check for climate‑specific recommendations such as “ideal for container‑grown flowers, herbs, and vegetables” or any mention of drought tolerance. Products that list earthworm castings, perlite, and pumice typically perform well in both humid and dry conditions by balancing water retention and aeration. Additionally, verify the bag’s size and weight to ensure it matches your storage capacity and planting schedule.