Comparison: Best Burpee Organic Growing Mix (Updated | Nov 11th)
We’ve dug into the dirt (literally) to compare top picks, evaluating texture, nutrient content, ease of use, and real garden results. Whether you’re starting seeds or potting perennials, we’ll help you find the perfect mix that grows more than just plants—it grows confidence.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for expandable seed mix: Burpee Organic Coconut Coir Concentrated Seed Starting Mix
- Best for all-purpose organic food: Burpee Natural Purpose Granular 4-Lb Organic Food for Growing Strong Plants | Good for Vegetable Garden
- Best for peat-free 3-in-1: Back to the Roots 3-in-1 Seed Starting Mix 6 Quarts
- Best for compact coconut coir: Burpee Natural & Organic Coconut Coir
- Best for food & soil combo: Burpee 4-Lb Organic Plant Food & 9-Quart Premium Potting Soil Mix for Vegetable
- Best for peat-free seed starter: Seedling Seed Starter Soil Mix – Peat-Free Organic Potting Mix for Seeds
- Best for food & coir combo: Burpee Natural Purpose Granular 4-Lb Organic Food for Growing Strong Plants & Organic Coconut Coir Concentrated Seed Starting Mix
- Best for myco-boost raised bed: Espoma Organic Raised Bed Mix – All Natural and Organic Potting Soil Mix for Growing Vegetables and Herbs in Raised Garden Beds. for Organic Gardening.1.5 Cubic Foot Bag
- Best for ready-to-use starter: Doter Organic Seed Starter Premium Potting Soil Mix 1qt
Product Comparison: Best Burpee Organic Growing Mix
Expandable Seed Mix
Burpee Organic Coconut Coir Concentrated Seed Starting Mix, 16 Quart
Burpee
- ORGANIC COCONUT COIR: Made from recycled coconut husks, coir is a light, sustainable growing medium that holds the perfect amount of moisture for starting seeds. 100% biodegradable soil alternative. Environmentally-friendly and a renewable alternative to peat moss. OMRI listed and certified organic.
- IDEAL GROWING MIX: Improve seed germination and root growth with this premium coconut fiber mix, which improves nutrients absorption! Great for flower, vegetable, herb & more plant types. OMRI listed. Naturally disease and pathogen resistant, it will help you grow healthy live plants.
- EASY TO STORE & EXPAND: Each compact coconut coir brick expands into 8 quarts of seed starting mix, providing 16 quarts total. Just add water to expand! Dehydrated bricks save space until planting. Once expanded, coconut coir provides a quality growing medium for all types of plants – indoor plants, house plants, outdoor plants, and more!
- NATURALLY CONSERVES WATER: Renewable coco coir has excellent moisture retention and better air circulation than peat. This eco-friendly, premium seeds starting mix combines well with other potting soil and compost for container plants & raised beds.
- 100% GUARANTEED: Burpee is committed to the success of all gardeners. We treat each order with care to ensure healthy seeds, plants, soil mixes & gardening supplies are sent in excellent condition. If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, we aim to make it right!
All-Purpose Organic Food
Burpee Natural Purpose Granular 4-Lb Organic Food for Growing Strong Plants | Good for Vegetable Garden, Flower Garden & Seed Starting, 4 lb, 4lb. Bag
Burpee
- FEED YOUR PLANTS: Burpee’s All-Purpose Organic Plant Food is formulated to keep your plants growing and happy throughout the season. Major nutrients as well as calcium, minor nutrients, and some of the beneficial microbes that help keep the soil and plants healthy are released immediately and continue to feed your plants for up to 3 months.
- FOR VEGETABLES, FLOWERS & HERBS: Use this natural plant food for seed starting, bedding plants, vegetable gardens, trees, shrubs and flower containers. OMRI labeled organic. The custom blend promotes plant growth and more blooms! Great for indoor or outdoor plants.
- ORGANIC CERTIFIED: OMRI listed for organic gardening use, this plant food safely keeps your soil and plants as healthy as they can be. Easy to apply granules release essential nutrients and deliver fast-acting results for all types of plants in your home garden. Follow instructions on the bag for how much plant food to apply.
- GREAT FOR CONTAINERS: Use this balanced mix to promote growth of flowers, vegetable and herbs in patio pots and containers. You’ll see the difference in plant health, fruit production and vibrancy of blooms. A natural fertilizer for growing your best garden.
- Since 1876: Generations of customers have trusted Burpee to deliver the highest quality products and service. Gardeners rely on Burpee for accurate plant information and how-to tips that make gardening easier and more successful. Let’s grow together!
Peat-Free 3-in-1
Back to the Roots 3-in-1 Seed Starting Mix 6 Quarts, 100% Organic & USA Made for Herbs, Veggies, Flowers, w/Nutrient Rich Plant Food, Worm-Castings, & Moisture Controlling Yucca Brown
Back to the Roots
- NUTRIENT-RICH, NATURAL, AND ORGANIC SOIL: Grow a bountiful garden in your home with the Back to the Roots All-Purpose Natural and Organic Peat-Free 3-in-1 Seed Starting Mix, packed with the nutrients needed for your plants, flowers, and vegetables to thrive
- MYCORRHIZAE, YUCCA EXTRACT, AND COCONUT COIR FOR STRONG ROOT DEVELOPMENT: This organic potting soil has mycorrhizae, coconut coir, and yucca extract which enhances the root’s uptake of water and the nutrients required by your plants for growth
- FEATURES pH BALANCING DOLOMITIC LIMESTONE: The dolomitic limestone of this potting soil has a combination of calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate which effectively neutralizes acidity and prevent nutrient deficiency
- ZERO-RISK GARDENING AND GREAT FOR THE PLANET: Made in the USA and 100% guaranteed to grow; If you have any problems, we will send you a new bag to get you growing; Mined peatlands contribute yearly CO2 emissions equivalent to what cars all over the world are releasing — that’s why we think it’s so important to leave peat alone and offer the 1st premium, 100% peat-free soil in the market
- THE PERFECT GIFT: The perfect holiday gift, it comes in a beautiful packaging so that it’s ready to be given to foodie, garden-loving and eco-conscious friends and family; This kit is also part of our Grow One Give One campaign, simply share a picture on social media, tag us and use the campaign hashtag, and we’ll donate a kit to a classroom of your choice
Compact Coconut Coir
Burpee Natural & Organic Coconut Coir, 8 Quart, (1 Pack)
Burpee
- ORGANIC COCONUT COIR: Made from recycled coconut husks, coir is a sustainable, renewable soil amendment that is light, moisture-retaining. OMRI listed for organic gardening. An excellent soil alternative that’s perfect for plant pots!
- IDEAL FOR PLANT GROWING: Use Burpee Organic Coconut Coir to grow your favorite flowers, herbs, vegetables and fruit in raised garden beds or containers. The fluffy, all-natural coir is also ideal for starting seeds in your house or for use in your indoor herb garden. Handy 8-quart bag size.
- NATURALLY CONSERVES WATER: Coco coir holds up to 150% of its weight in water. An excellent growing medium, coconut coir mixes well with other types of potting soil and compost for plant containers and raised beds. Use to create your own custom soil mixes.
- IMPROVES AERATION: The natural coconut fiber in our Coconut Coir has better air circulation than peat moss! Improved aeration and drainage promotes stronger root growth. Keep the coir evenly moist but not overly soggy for the healthiest seeds, seedlings and plants.
- 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.
Food & Soil Combo
Burpee 4-Lb Organic Plant Food & 9-Quart Premium Potting Soil Mix for Vegetable, Flower & Herb Garden
Burpee
- Feed plants instantly and continuously for up to 3 months with the organic plant food’s essential nutrients, calcium, and microbes.
- Promote strong root systems and plant growth with the coconut coir potting mix that retains moisture and nutrients.
- Use the 4 lb bag of organic plant food for vegetables, flowers, herbs, trees, shrubs and containers in your home garden.
- Plant flowers, vegetables and herbs in patio pots and containers with the organic potting mix for vibrant blooms and delicious harvests.
- Burpee guarantees healthy seeds, plants, soil mixes and gardening supplies, committed to gardener success and satisfaction.
Peat-Free Seed Starter
Seedling Seed Starter Soil Mix – Peat-Free Organic Potting Mix for Seeds, Cuttings, Microgreens- Enriched w/Worm Castings, Root-Boosting Biochar, Less Prone to Gnats for Germination & Propagation- 4qt
Rosy Soil
- Ideal Growing Foundation: Our seed starter soil mix is expertly formulated to enhance soil aeration, drainage, and nutrient absorption, providing the perfect environment for strong, healthy seedlings and plants to flourish. This seed starter soil supports vigorous plant development from the very beginning.
- Peat-Free Formula: Crafted from eco-conscious ingredients like biochar, worm castings, mycorrhizae, pine bark fines, sand, and compost, our seed starter mix increases fluffiness and enhances drainage. This premium seed starting potting soil mix offers a sustainable, nutrient-rich blend for optimal plant growth.
- Versatile for All Seedlings and Cuttings: Designed to meet the specific needs of all types of seedlings, cuttings, and microgreens, our seedling soil is ideal for starting vegetables, flowers, herbs, houseplants, and more. This seed starter kit provides a living soil environment tailored to nurture a wide variety of plant species.
- Easy to Use: Prepare your seed starter tray or pot with Rosy Soil Seed Starter mix, following the depth and spacing recommendations on your seed packet to avoid overcrowding. For propagating cuttings, fill a pot partially with the seed starting soil, insert the cutting, and cover it with soil, leaving an inch at the top for easy watering.
- Eco-Friendly & Resealable Packaging: Our seed starter soil comes in plastic-neutral, carbon-natural packaging designed to reduce environmental impact. The convenient 4lb resealable bag keeps your seed starting soil fresh and ready to nurture young plants while offering an eco-conscious choice for sustainable gardening.
Food & Coir Combo
Burpee Natural Purpose Granular 4-Lb Organic Food for Growing Strong Plants & Organic Coconut Coir Concentrated Seed Starting Mix, 16 Quart
Burpee
- Product 1: FEED YOUR PLANTS: Burpee’s All-Purpose Organic Plant Food is formulated to keep your plants growing and happy throughout the season. Major nutrients as well as calcium, minor nutrients, and some of the beneficial microbes that help keep the soil and plants healthy are released immediately and continue to feed your plants for up to 3 months.
- Product 1: FOR VEGETABLES, FLOWERS & HERBS: Use this natural plant food for seed starting, bedding plants, vegetable gardens, trees, shrubs and flower containers. OMRI labeled organic. The custom blend promotes plant growth and more blooms! Great for indoor or outdoor plants.
- Product 1: ORGANIC CERTIFIED: OMRI listed for organic gardening use, this plant food safely keeps your soil and plants as healthy as they can be. Easy to apply granules release essential nutrients and deliver fast-acting results for all types of plants in your home garden. Follow instructions on the bag for how much plant food to apply.
- Product 1: GREAT FOR CONTAINERS: Use this balanced mix to promote growth of flowers, vegetable and herbs in patio pots and containers. You’ll see the difference in plant health, fruit production and vibrancy of blooms. A natural fertilizer for growing your best garden.
- Product 2: ORGANIC COCONUT COIR: Made from recycled coconut husks, coir is a light, sustainable growing medium that holds the perfect amount of moisture for starting seeds. 100% biodegradable soil alternative. Environmentally-friendly and a renewable alternative to peat moss. OMRI listed and certified organic.
- Product 2: IDEAL GROWING MIX: Improve seed germination and root growth with this premium coconut fiber mix, which improves nutrients absorption! Great for flower, vegetable, herb & more plant types. OMRI listed. Naturally disease and pathogen resistant, it will help you grow healthy live plants.
- Product 2: EASY TO STORE & EXPAND: Each compact coconut coir brick expands into 8 quarts of seed starting mix, providing 16 quarts total. Just add water to expand! Dehydrated bricks save space until planting. Once expanded, coconut coir provides a quality growing medium for all types of plants – indoor plants, house plants, outdoor plants, and more!
- Product 2: NATURALLY CONSERVES WATER: Renewable coco coir has excellent moisture retention and better air circulation than peat. This eco-friendly, premium seeds starting mix combines well with other potting soil and compost for container plants & raised beds.
Myco-Boost Raised Bed
Espoma Organic Raised Bed Mix – All Natural and Organic Potting Soil Mix for Growing Vegetables and Herbs in Raised Garden Beds. for Organic Gardening.1.5 Cubic Foot Bag
Espoma
- FOR USE: Ideal for raised garden beds and outdoor containers.
- CONTAINS: This organic soil mix for plants & vegetables is a rich blend of natural and organic ingredients enriched with earthworm castings, alfalfa meal, kelp meal & feather meal
- MYCO-TONE: A proprietary blend of endo & ecto mycorrhizae.
- WHEN TO USE: Use to fill new raised beds or to enhance soil in existing beds. Ready to use
- ORGANIC GARDENING: Contains a rich blend of only the finest natural ingredients. No synthetic plant foods or chemicals are used.
Ready-to-Use Starter
Doter Organic Seed Starter Premium Potting Soil Mix 1qt, All Natural Seed Starter Mix for Fast Germination and Vigorous Seedlings with Strong Root Systems
Doter
- Ready to Use – Seed starter mix eliminates the need for complex soil preparation, making it a time-saving and effortless option
- Organic Gardening – Our organic seed starting mix is carefully formulated with a balanced blend of organic matter, peat moss, perlite, vermiculite, and other essential ingredients
- Ideal Moisture Balance – The seed starting soil mix maintains an ideal moisture balance, retaining moisture for germination while preventing waterlogging that could harm roots
- Nutrient-rich Medium – Enriched with essential plant nutrients, our potting mix provides a nourishing environment for young seedlings
- Suitable for All Plants – Our seedling soil is incredibly versatile. It’s not only ideal for seed starting but also comes in handy for transplanting or propagating plants through root cuttings
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 should I look for in a seed‑starting mix?
A good seed‑starting mix should be light, well‑draining, and retain enough moisture to keep seeds hydrated without becoming soggy. Look for organic certifications (OMRI listed), peat‑free options, and added nutrients like mycorrhizae or coconut coir that promote strong root development. The mix’s pH balance and the presence of natural amendments such as dolomitic limestone can also improve germination rates.
How does Burpee’s Organic Coconut Coir compare to Back to the Roots’ 3‑in‑1 mix?
Burpee’s coconut coir is a pure, peat‑free medium that excels at water retention and aeration, making it ideal for seedlings that need consistent moisture. Back to the Roots adds mycorrhizae, yucca extract, and dolomitic limestone, providing extra nutrients and pH balancing benefits. If you prefer a simple, renewable base you can blend yourself, choose Burpee; for a ready‑made, nutrient‑rich blend, Back to the Roots is a solid option.
Is it worth buying a separate organic plant food like Burpee’s 4‑lb Granular Food?
Organic granular plant food supplies essential macro‑ and micronutrients that a plain coconut coir mix lacks, extending feed for up to three months. This can boost flowering, fruiting, and overall vigor, especially in container gardens where soil nutrients deplete quickly. Pairing a plant food with a coir or peat‑free mix gives you both a superior growing medium and a steady nutrient source.
Which product offers the best value for a small indoor herb garden?
For a compact indoor setup, Burpee’s 8‑quart Coconut Coir provides a low‑cost, lightweight medium that you can easily mix with a small amount of organic plant food. The 6‑quart Back to the Roots mix includes extra nutrients but is priced higher per quart. If budget is a priority, the Burpee coir plus a modest amount of granular food delivers comparable results at a lower overall cost.
Can I use a peat‑free mix for raised‑bed gardening?
Yes, peat‑free mixes like the Back to the Roots 3‑in‑1 blend or the Espoma Raised Bed Mix are formulated for larger containers and raised beds, offering good structure and nutrient content. These mixes often contain coconut coir, mycorrhizae, and organic amendments that improve soil health over time. Ensure you add compost or additional organic matter to meet the higher nutrient demands of mature plants.
What are the environmental advantages of choosing coconut coir over peat moss?
Coconut coir is made from recycled coconut husks, a renewable resource that does not deplete sensitive peatland ecosystems. It also biodegrades naturally and has a lower carbon footprint compared with peat extraction, which releases stored carbon. Choosing coir helps reduce habitat loss while still providing excellent water retention and aeration for plants.
How do I decide between a pre‑mixed seed starter soil and creating my own blend?
Pre‑mixed soils like Doter’s Organic Seed Starter or Burpee’s Coconut Coir offer convenience and consistent performance, ideal for beginners or those who value time savings. Custom blends let you tailor the medium by adding specific amendments such as extra perlite for drainage or additional organic fertilizer for nutrient‑heavy crops. If you enjoy experimenting and have specific plant needs, mixing your own can be rewarding; otherwise, a ready‑made mix ensures reliable results.