Comparison: Best Burpee Organic Potting Soil (Updated | Nov 11th)
But with so many options, how do you know which one truly delivers? In this honest comparison, we’ll dig into the key features, ingredients, and real-world performance of Burpee’s top organic blends. Whether you’re growing veggies, flowers, or herbs, we’ve done the dirty work so you can choose with confidence and grow with success.
- Best for peat-free blend: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA
- Best for vermiculite aerator: Burpee Organic Horticultural Add to Potting Soil | Ideal for Seed Starting
- Best for two-month feed: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for water balance: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for mycorrhizae boost: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA
- Best for coco coir starter: Burpee Organic Coconut Coir Concentrated Seed Starting Mix
- Best for bulk outdoor mix: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for earthworm enriched: Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix – All Natural Potting Mix For All Indoor & Outdoor Containers Including Herbs & Vegetables. For Organic Gardening
- Best for dual indoor pack: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for bone root boost: Burpee Bone Meal Fertilizer | Add to Potting Soil | Strong Root Development | OMRI Listed for Organic Gardening | for Tomatoes
Product Comparison: Best Burpee 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.
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.
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 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
Burpee Organic Coconut Coir Concentrated Seed Starting Mix, 16 Quart
- 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!
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 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)
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
- 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.
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 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)
Burpee Bone Meal Fertilizer | Add to Potting Soil | Strong Root Development | OMRI Listed for Organic Gardening | for Tomatoes, Peppers, and Bulbs, 1-Pack, 3 lb (1 Pack)
- STRONGER ROOT DEVELOPMENT: Bone Meal is a natural source of vital, readily available organic nitrogen, phosphorus and calcium that promotes strong plant roots, vibrant blooms and more delicious vegetables. Helps to enhance your plants throughout the growing season!
- ADD TO SOIL: Add to soil or potting mix during seed starting or at any time prior to harvest to fuel strong roots and early, healthy plant growth. Bone meal fertilizer breaks down slowly, releasing nitrogen for robust growth throughout the season. Follow packaging instructions for the amount to use.
- ORGANIC CERTIFIED: OMRI listed for organic gardening, Bone Meal is ideal for new bedding plants, giving established home flower gardens a boost, and keeping patio containers looking their best and brightest. Helps naturally deter rabbits from your garden.
- IDEAL FOR FALL BULB PLANTING: Bone meal naturally promotes healthy growth of root and bulb crops and has a fine granular consistency for easy spreading. You can also use when planting flowering bulbs in the fall, such as tulips. Plus, it’s Made in the USA!
- 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!
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Buying Guide
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 additives like yucca extract or coir, and include mycorrhizal fungi for root health. Look for a balanced pH and a lightweight formula that won’t compact in containers. Certifications such as OMRI or a 100% organic claim add confidence in the product’s purity.
How does Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix compare to Miracle‑Gro Organic Indoor Mix?
Back to the Roots uses a peat‑free blend with yucca extract and dolomitic limestone, making it a lower‑carbon option that also reduces indoor gnats. Miracle‑Gro includes sphagnum peat, coir, and a quick‑start natural fertilizer, offering a built‑in feeding schedule for up to two months. The Back to the Roots mix leans toward sustainability, while Miracle‑Gro emphasizes immediate nutrient availability.
Is Burpee’s Organic Vermiculite a good addition to my potting soil?
Yes, the vermiculite amendment improves aeration and water retention, helping roots breathe and stay hydrated. It’s OMRI‑listed and 100% natural, so it won’t compromise the organic status of your mix. Adding a few quarts to a standard potting blend can boost seedling vigor without dramatically changing the soil texture.
Which product offers the best value for larger outdoor container gardens?
Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix comes in 25‑quart bags that fill three 10‑inch containers, providing a cost‑effective bulk option. It includes a quick‑release natural fertilizer that feeds plants for up to two months, reducing the need for separate feedings. If you prefer a peat‑free alternative, Back to the Roots offers a 12‑quart bag, but you’ll need more bags to cover the same volume.
Do I need a separate fertilizer if I choose an organic potting mix?
Many organic mixes, like Miracle‑Gro’s Outdoor and Indoor blends, contain built‑in slow‑release fertilizers that support plants for several weeks. However, mixes without added nutrients, such as Back to the Roots’ peat‑free formula, may require supplemental organic feedings for heavy feeders. Assess your plant’s nutrient demand and decide if an extra fertilizer aligns with your gardening routine.
How important is the source of peat or peat alternatives in these products?
Peat harvested responsibly (certified producers) minimizes environmental impact, which is highlighted on Miracle‑Gro’s packaging. Peat‑free options, like Back to the Roots and Burpee’s coconut coir, reduce carbon emissions and are ideal for gardeners aiming for a greener footprint. Choose based on your sustainability priorities and the specific needs of your plants.
Can I use the same potting mix for both seed starting and mature plants?
Seed starting benefits from a fine, sterile medium with excellent moisture retention, such as Burpee’s Coconut Coir Seed Starting Mix or the vermiculite amendment. Mature plants often thrive in a coarser blend that provides better drainage, like the Back to the Roots All‑Purpose mix. Mixing a small amount of vermiculite or coir into a general potting soil can create a versatile medium suitable for both stages.
What added features should I consider for pet‑friendly or pest‑free potting soil?
Back to the Roots Indoor Mix is formulated without bark or compost, reducing the likelihood of indoor gnats and making it safer around pets. Look for mixes that are free of synthetic chemicals and have natural pest‑deterrent properties, such as the organic vermiculite from Burpee. These attributes help maintain a healthier indoor environment for both plants and household members.