Comparison: Best Burpee Potting Soil (Updated | Nov 11th)
From lush tomatoes to vibrant flowers, Burpee’s promise of quality has many wondering: does it really live up to the hype? In this honest comparison, we’ll dig into the ingredients, performance, and value of Burpee’s top potting soils to help you decide which one deserves a spot in your garden. Let’s find the perfect blend for your green thumb.
- Best for organic aeration boost: Burpee Organic Horticultural Add to Potting Soil | Ideal for Seed Starting
- Best for quick release: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for peat-free blend: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA
- Best for gnat-resistant soil: Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix: Fertilized
- Best for moisture guard: Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix
- Best for coconut coir starter: Burpee Organic Coconut Coir Concentrated Seed Starting Mix
- Best for six-month growth: Miracle-Gro Potting Mix
- Best for indoor water balance: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for root-boost bone: Burpee Bone Meal Fertilizer | Add to Potting Soil | Strong Root Development | OMRI Listed for Organic Gardening | for Tomatoes
- Best for all-purpose growth: Miracle-Gro Potting Mix
Product Comparison: Best Burpee Potting Soil
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.
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 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)
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 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 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)
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!
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)
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 a potting mix for indoor houseplants?
Focus on a blend that balances moisture retention with good aeration, such as a mix containing perlite or vermiculite. Look for OMRI‑certified organic options if you prefer chemical‑free formulations. A mix with a light texture helps prevent root rot and promotes healthy foliage.
How does the moisture control feature of Miracle‑Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix compare to the standard Miracle‑Gro Potting Mix?
The Moisture Control mix uses an AquaCoir formula that can hold up to 33% more water than the regular mix, reducing the risk of both over‑ and under‑watering. It also feeds plants for up to six months, while the standard mix provides similar nutrition but without the enhanced water‑holding capability. For drought‑prone areas, the Moisture Control blend offers more forgiving performance.
Which product is the most environmentally friendly option?
Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix is peat‑free and made from up‑cycled plant material, giving it a lower carbon footprint than peat‑based mixes. Burpee’s Coconut Coir Seed Starting Mix also uses a renewable coconut husk source and is biodegradable. Both options avoid peat extraction, which is considered the most sustainable choice.
When should I use Burpee’s vermiculite amendment versus coconut coir?
Vermiculite excels at improving aeration and drainage in heavy soils, making it ideal for container gardens with dense mixes or for bulb storage. Coconut coir provides excellent moisture retention while still allowing airflow, which is perfect for seed starting and for growers seeking a peat‑free alternative. Use vermiculite to lighten a dense potting mix and coir when you need consistent moisture for germination.
How do the nutrient release durations differ among the organic mixes?
Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix contains a quick‑release natural fertilizer that feeds plants for up to two months. Miracle‑Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix and the standard Organic Outdoor mix both provide a slower, steady release that can last six months. The Back to the Roots blend does not include a built‑in fertilizer, so you’ll need to supplement with a separate feed if longer nutrition is desired.
Is the Back to the Roots potting mix suitable for vegetable gardening?
Yes, the Back to the Roots mix is all‑purpose and works well for herbs, vegetables, fruits, and flowers. Because it is peat‑free and balanced for pH, it supports healthy root development in a wide range of vegetable crops. Just add a supplemental organic fertilizer if you want a longer feeding schedule.
What are the benefits of adding Burpee Bone Meal to my potting soil?
Bone Meal supplies organic nitrogen, phosphorus, and calcium, which promote strong root systems and robust flowering. It releases nutrients slowly, providing a steady supply throughout the growing season. Additionally, it can help deter rabbits and other wildlife from feeding on young plants.
How do the prices/values compare between the 16‑qt bundles and the 8‑qt packs?
The 16‑qt bundles, such as Miracle‑Gro Potting Mix (two 16‑qt bags), generally offer a lower cost per quart and are ideal for filling larger containers or multiple pots. The 8‑qt bags, like the Moisture Control mix, are convenient for smaller projects but have a higher price per volume. Consider the size of your garden and how often you repot to decide which size gives the best value.
Can I mix the Miracle‑Gro Organic Indoor Mix with other amendments for seed starting?
Absolutely; the Organic Indoor Mix can be blended with coconut coir or vermiculite to improve moisture control and aeration for seed germination. Adding a light amendment helps prevent compacting and encourages healthy root emergence. Just keep the overall mix light and well‑draining to avoid waterlogging.
Which potting mix provides the best drainage for cactus and succulents?
A mix that includes a high proportion of perlite or vermiculite, such as Miracle‑Gro Houseplant Potting Mix, offers excellent drainage and reduces the risk of root rot. Adding Burpee’s vermiculite amendment to any base mix can further improve aeration for succulents. Ensure the final blend is gritty and fast‑draining to meet the needs of desert‑type plants.