Comparison: Best Burpee Potting Mix (Updated | Nov 11th)
Whether you’re growing vibrant flowers, juicy tomatoes, or delicate herbs, the right mix can make all the difference. In this comparison, we’ll break down the top Burpee potting mixes, weighing ingredients, moisture control, and real garden results—so you can skip the guesswork and start growing with confidence.
- Best for organic vermiculite boost: Burpee Organic Horticultural Add to Potting Soil | Ideal for Seed Starting
- Best for quick-release fertilizer: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for peat-free premium: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA
- Best for eco seed starter: Burpee Organic Coconut Coir Concentrated Seed Starting Mix
- Best for moisture-control mix: Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix
- Best for twin-bag growth: Miracle-Gro Potting Mix
- Best for all-season feed: Miracle-Gro Potting Mix
- Best for houseplant perlite blend: Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix: Fertilized
- Best for organic indoor guard: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for root-boosting indoor: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA
Product Comparison: Best Burpee Potting Mix
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)
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 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 Moisture Control Potting Mix, For Container Plants, Protects against Over- and Under-Watering, 8 qt., 2-Pack
- Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix feeds plants for up to 6 months and Grows Plants Twice As Big! (vs unfed plants)
- This potting medium protects against over and under watering; also absorbs up to 33% more water than basic potting soil* with exclusive AquaCoir Formula (*soil that does not contain sphagnum peat moss, coir, and wetting agent)
- Use this gardening product with all types of container plants, including flowers, vegetables, annuals, perennials, and shrubs
- To use this potting soil, fill a container about 1/3 full with potting mix; place your plant in the pot and cover with more mix
- This bundle comes with two 8 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix; each fills two 8-inch containers (exact amounts may vary depending on the size of the root ball)
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, For Container Plants, Flowers, Vegetables, Annuals, Perennials, Shrubs, Feeds for up to 6 Months, 16. qt., 2-Pack
- Miracle-Gro Potting Mix feeds container plants for up to 6 months so you get more blooms for more color (vs. unfed plants)
- How to use: To use this potting medium, fill a container about 1/3 full with potting mix, place your plant in the soil, and fill the rest of the pot, pressing lightly
- What’s included: This bundles includes two 16 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, each able to fill one 12-inch container (exact amounts may vary based on root ball size)
- Where to Use: Use this home gardening product with all types of container plants, including annual and perennial flowers, vegetables, herbs and shrubs
- This potting soil mix Grows Plants Twice As Big (vs. unfed plants)
Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, For Indoor or Outdoor Potted Plants, Flowers, Vegetables, Shrubs, Annuals, and Perennials, Feeds Up to 6 Months, 8 qt.
- Feeds all potted plants: Miracle-Gro Potting Mix feeds all types of potted plants, including flowers, vegetables, shrubs, annuals, and perennials for up to 6 months
- Promotes growth: This potting soil Grows Plants Twice As Big! (vs. unfed plants)
- Boosts color: Get more blooms for more color (vs unfed plants)
- Application: To apply this potting medium, fill a container about 1/3 full with potting mix, place your plant in the soil, and fill the rest of the pot, pressing lightly; water thoroughly
- Coverage: Each 8 qt. bag of Miracle-Gro Potting Mix fills two 8 inch containers (exact amounts may vary depending on the size of the root ball)
Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix: Fertilized, Perlite Soil for Indoor Gardening, Designed to Be Less Prone to Gnats, 4 qt.
- Growing indoors is easy under the right conditions; Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix combines key elements plants need to thrive
- Recommended for growing beautiful indoor houseplant varieties like Pothos, Spider Plants, Monstera, Philodendron, English Ivy and more
- This indoor plant soil is less prone to gnats, thanks to the combination of perlite, sphagnum and peat moss that’s just right
- Certified by the Mulch & Soil Council as a quality product in compliance with industry standards
- A single 4-qt bag fills an 8-inch container; for even more spectacular results, start regular feedings with Miracle-Gro Plant Food 30 days after planting
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
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 are the main differences between Burpee Organic Vermiculite and Burpee Coconut Coir Seed Starting Mix?
Vermiculite is a mineral amendment that improves aeration and water retention when added to existing potting soil, while coconut coir is a standalone growing medium made from recycled coconut husks. Vermiculite is sold as an 8‑quart bag and is OMRI‑listed for organic use, whereas the coir mix expands from a compact brick into 16 quarts of seed‑starting mix. Choose vermiculite if you want to boost an existing mix; choose coir if you need a lightweight, peat‑free base for germination.
How does Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix compare to Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix in terms of sustainability?
Miracle‑Gro’s mix uses responsibly sourced peat, which still has environmental concerns, while Back to the Roots is completely peat‑free and made from upcycled plant material and wood fines. The Back to the Roots blend also incorporates yucca extract for moisture control and dolomitic limestone for pH balance, giving it a lower carbon footprint. If eco‑friendliness is a priority, the peat‑free option is the greener choice.
Which product provides the longest built‑in feeding period for container plants?
Both Miracle‑Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix and the standard Miracle‑Gro Potting Mix claim to feed plants for up to six months, thanks to their integrated slow‑release fertilizers. The Moisture Control version also adds an AquaCoir formula that holds 33 % more water, extending the time between waterings. For the longest feeding without additional fertilizer, the Moisture Control mix is the top performer.
When should I choose a moisture‑control mix over a regular potting mix?
Moisture‑control mixes are ideal for gardeners who struggle with over‑ or under‑watering, especially in hot climates or with plants that require consistent moisture levels. They contain water‑absorbing polymers and perlite that keep the root zone evenly moist, reducing the need for frequent watering. If you prefer a low‑maintenance approach or have a busy schedule, a moisture‑control blend is the better option.
Are any of these potting mixes safe for pets and children?
Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix and Miracle‑Gro Houseplant Potting Mix are formulated without added synthetic fertilizers, making them less likely to cause irritation if ingested. Both are free of harmful chemicals and are labeled as safe for indoor use, which reduces the risk of exposure for pets and kids. However, it’s always best to keep any soil product out of reach of curious animals and children.
Which mixes are peat‑free, and why might that matter?
Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (both indoor and outdoor versions) and Burpee Coconut Coir Seed Starting Mix are completely peat‑free, using recycled wood fibers or coconut coir instead. Peat extraction contributes to habitat loss and carbon emissions, so peat‑free options are more environmentally responsible. If you’re aiming for a lower‑impact garden, choose one of these peat‑free blends.
How important is pH balance, and which products address it directly?
Soil pH affects nutrient availability; most garden plants thrive in a slightly acidic to neutral range (pH 6.0‑7.0). Back to the Roots mixes include dolomitic limestone to help stabilize pH, while the Back to the Roots Indoor Potting Mix adds yucca extract for moisture control and also balances pH. If you have plants sensitive to pH fluctuations, these mixes provide built‑in buffering agents.
Is buying larger bags more cost‑effective, and which products give the best value per volume?
Generally, larger bags lower the price per quart. Miracle‑Gro’s 16‑quart bundles and Burpee’s 8‑quart vermiculite bag offer good value for bulk purchases, especially when you need to fill multiple containers. For the most economical option with sustainable credentials, the 12‑quart Back to the Roots Organic Potting Mix provides a strong balance of price, volume, and eco‑friendly ingredients.