Comparison: Best Burpee Organic Seed Starting Mix (Updated | Nov 11th)
But with so many options out there, how do you know which one truly delivers? We’ve dug into the details, tested the texture, and watched seeds sprout to bring you an honest, side-by-side comparison. Whether you’re growing herbs on a windowsill or prepping a full backyard garden, let’s find the mix that helps your green dreams take root.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for coconut coir expand: Burpee Organic Coconut Coir Concentrated Seed Starting Mix
- Best for vermiculite aeration boost: Burpee Organic Horticultural Add to Potting Soil | Ideal for Seed Starting
- Best for peat-free power: Back to the Roots 3-in-1 Seed Starting Mix 6 Quarts
- Best for mycorrhizae root boost: Espoma Organic Seed Starter Premium Potting Soil Mix – All Natural & Organic Seed Starting Mix with Mycorrhizae. For Organic Gardening
- Best for expandable peat-free block: Back to the Roots Organic Seed Starting
- Best for pellet tray ready: Burpee 72 Count Coir Seed Starting Pellet 22.5mm
- Best for three-month organic feed: Burpee Natural Purpose Granular 4-Lb Organic Food for Growing Strong Plants | Good for Vegetable Garden
- Best for smart seed starter: Promix Premier Horticulture Organic Pro Seed Starting Mix; 16 qt with My Garden Pool PH Soil Test Strips 20 ct
Product Comparison: Best Burpee Organic Seed Starting Mix
Coconut Coir Expand
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!
Vermiculite Aeration Boost
Burpee Organic Horticultural Add to Potting Soil | Ideal for Seed Starting, Water Retention and Plant Propagation | 100% Natural | 8 Quart, 1-Pack, Vermiculite (8qt)
Burpee
- 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.
Peat-Free Power
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
Mycorrhizae Root Boost
Espoma Organic Seed Starter Premium Potting Soil Mix – All Natural & Organic Seed Starting Mix with Mycorrhizae. For Organic Gardening, 16 qt, bag – Pack of One
Espoma
- CONTAINS: This organic Seed Stating soil mix is a rich blend of sphagnum peat moss & perlite with yucca extract and lime to ensure correct pH.
- MYCO-TONE: A blend of endo & ecto mycorrhizae.
- WHEN TO USE: Use to germinate and start seeds. Great for flower, vegetable, herb & more plant types. Can also be used to root stem and leaf cuttings.
- PROMOTE ROOT GROWTH: Organic seed starter mix ensures ideal moisture retention and aeration.
- ORGANIC GARDENING: Contains a rich blend of only the finest natural ingredients. No synthetic plant foods or chemicals are used.
Expandable Peat-Free Block
Back to the Roots Organic Seed Starting, Compressed Block expands to 12 Quarts, Made for Herbs, Veggies, Flowers
Back to the Roots
- 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 12 Quarts
- Peat Free OMRI Listed, assuring organic production, handling, and processing
- 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE: If you are not satisfied or have any issues with this product, just shoot us a note and our dedicated 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 Kids Grow Kit and STEM elementary school curriculum to a classroom of your choice.
Pellet Tray Ready
Burpee 72 Count Coir Seed Starting Pellet 22.5mm
Burpee
- SIMPLER SEED STARTING: Take the mess out of starting seeds with Burpee compressed coir pellets, which expand with water to fill Burpee ultimate seed starter kits, including our 72-cell seed starter tray. Pellets measure about 3/4″ in diameter before expansion. 72 count included.
- IMPROVE GERMINATION: Our unique coconut coir soil blend is specially formulated to get your seeds off to the best start possible! Made with recycled coconut fiber, coir is a sustainable growing medium that holds the perfect amount of moisture for starting seeds and promoting strong root growth of seedlings.
- EASY TO STORE & EXPAND: Save space until it’s time to sow seeds. Just add warm water to expand the compact seed starting soil pellets. Once expanded, the soil mix provides a quality growing medium for all types of plants – vegetables, flowers and herbs!
- MOISTURE RETENTION: Renewable coco coir holds more water and has better air circulation than peat moss. This eco-friendly, premium starting mix for seeds also combines well with other potting soil and compost for use with container plants and in 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 and gardening supplies are sent in excellent condition. If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, we aim to make it right!
Three-Month Organic Feed
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!
Smart Seed Starter
Promix Premier Horticulture Organic Pro Seed Starting Mix; 16 qt with My Garden Pool PH Soil Test Strips 20 ct, and Gardening Claw Gloves and Garden-IQ, Smart Gardening AI Assistant!
My Garden Pool
- 🌿Organic and All-Natural Ingredients: Carefully selected to provide your seeds with a healthy, chemical-free start.
- 🌱Enriched with Mycorrhizae: For enhanced nutrient and water absorption, promoting stronger root development and plant growth.
- 🧪Easy pH Monitoring: Comes with 20 pH soil test strips for optimal soil condition management.
- 🌻Versatile Use: Ideal for a wide range of plants, ensuring your garden’s diverse needs are met.
- 🌱Promotes Healthy Seeds: Specially formulated to encourage vigorous seed germination and growth.
- 🌿Eco-Friendly Packaging: Committed to sustainability, our packaging is designed to minimize environmental impact.
- 🧠 Garden-IQ, Smart Gardening AI Assistant: Get smart advice and solutions tailored to your gardening needs.
- 🧤Superior Gardening Claw Gloves: In addition to the fertilizer and pH test strips, this package also includes My Garden Pool Superior Gardening Claw Gloves, offering maximum protection and comfort for your hands while working in the garden.
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 when choosing an organic seed starting mix?
Focus on the growing medium’s moisture retention, aeration, and nutrient content. Look for OMRI‑listed products that include beneficial additives like mycorrhizae, coconut coir, or vermiculite. Sustainable sourcing, such as peat‑free or recycled coconut, adds environmental value.
How does Burpee’s Coconut Coir Concentrated Mix compare to Back to the Roots’ peat‑free blend?
Burpee’s mix uses 100% coconut coir, offering excellent water retention and air flow while being fully biodegradable. Back to the Roots adds mycorrhizae, yucca extract, and dolomitic limestone for pH balance and extra nutrients. The coconut coir mix expands from a brick to 16 quarts, whereas the Back to the Roots bag provides 6 quarts of a ready‑to‑use blend.
Is vermiculite a good supplement for seed starting mixes?
Yes, vermiculite improves aeration and moisture retention, helping seedlings develop strong roots. Burpee’s Organic Horticultural Vermiculite is sterile and OMRI‑listed, making it safe for organic gardens. It works well as an amendment to coconut coir or peat‑free mixes.
Which product offers the best value for large‑scale planting?
Burpee’s Coconut Coir Concentrated Mix provides 16 quarts from a compact brick, giving a high volume for a low storage footprint. The 8‑quart vermiculite bag adds value as a supplemental amendment. For gardeners needing a ready‑mix, Back to the Roots’ 6‑quart bag is pricier per quart but includes extra nutrients and pH balancing agents.
How important is pH balance in a seed starter, and which mixes address it?
A neutral to slightly acidic pH promotes optimal nutrient uptake for most vegetables and herbs. Back to the Roots includes dolomitic limestone to buffer acidity, while Espoma’s Seed Starter mix uses peat moss and lime for pH control. Coconut coir mixes are naturally near neutral but may benefit from a pH test strip, which Promix provides.
Are compressed coir pellets a convenient option for beginners?
Compressed pellets, like Burpee’s 72‑count coir pellets, expand with water and eliminate mess, making them ideal for small indoor setups. They fit neatly into seed trays and provide consistent moisture. However, they offer less volume per purchase than bulk brick mixes, so they’re best for hobbyists rather than large gardens.
What sustainability factors should influence my purchase?
Choose peat‑free products such as coconut coir or Back to the Roots’ blend to reduce environmental impact. Look for recycled or renewable materials and OMRI certification, which ensures organic handling. Products that include a give‑back program, like Back to the Roots’ GrowOneGiveOne, add social value to your purchase.