Comparison: Best Dr Earth Homegrown Potting Soil (Updated | Nov 11th)

Both soils are OMRI listed, pet‑ and people‑safe, and designed for indoor and outdoor containers, but the Gold Premium version adds Pro‑Moisture Hydrate and a higher load of TruBiotic microbes, including both ecto‑ and endo‑mycorrhizae. The All Purpose mix focuses on a balanced blend for general use without the extra moisture‑retention additive. If you want extra water‑holding power and a stronger microbial inoculant, the Premium blend is the better choice.

The Dr. Earth Exotic Blend Cactus & Succulent Potting Mix (8 qt) and the Dr. Earth 810 Exotic Cactus & Succulent Soil (8 qt) are both formulated for drought‑tolerant plants, offering superior drainage while still retaining enough moisture for healthy root development. Both are OMRI listed and contain mycorrhizal fungi, but the 810 blend highlights a high‑quality composted organic base with TruBiotic microbes. Either will work well, though the 810 mix emphasizes a broader organic ingredient list.

All Dr. Earth potting soils are MycoApply certified and include a blend of ecto‑ and endo‑mycorrhizae, but the Gold Premium and 810 Exotic mixes specifically mention TruBiotic microbes for enhanced nutrient uptake. The standard Pot of Gold All Purpose also contains microbes, though it does not highlight the TruBiotic brand. In general, the premium‑labeled products provide a richer microbial inoculant.

The Premium Gold Fertilizer is a standalone, non‑GMO‑verified organic fertilizer that can extend feeding periods for vegetables, herbs, and fruits, while the potting soils already contain a balanced nutrient base for establishment. For long‑term crops or heavy feeders, supplementing with the fertilizer can boost yields, but for most container gardening projects the soil alone is sufficient. Consider the fertilizer if you plan multiple harvest cycles from the same plants.

An 8‑quart bag of Dr. Earth soil typically covers several medium‑size containers and includes moisture‑retention additives and microbes, offering a comprehensive growing medium. The 4‑lb Premium Gold Fertilizer provides a concentrated source of organic nutrients that lasts several months when applied as a top‑dressing. If you need both a soil base and ongoing feeding, purchasing both gives the best value; otherwise, the soil alone may be more cost‑effective for short‑term projects.

Yes, every Dr. Earth product listed is OMRI certified and explicitly labeled as pet‑ and people‑safe, with no synthetic chemicals, GMO‑infested chicken manure, or toxic additives. This makes them suitable for indoor gardening, raised beds, and containers in homes with pets or small children. Always store the bags out of reach of curious pets to prevent accidental ingestion of large quantities.

Absolutely. The Gold Premium and Pot of Gold mixes are formulated for both container use and in‑ground applications such as planting trees, shrubs, and vegetable beds. Their organic composition improves soil structure, adds beneficial microbes, and enhances water retention, making them a versatile amendment for garden beds.

WONDER SOIL uses a peat‑free, compressed coco‑coir base enriched with worm castings, kelp, perlite, and mycorrhizae, expanding to four times its dry volume when hydrated. Dr. Earth mixes rely on composted organic materials like aged fir bark and TruBiotic microbes. While both are organic and microbe‑rich, WONDER SOIL offers a lighter, more water‑retentive medium, whereas Dr. Earth provides a richer organic texture and stronger mycorrhizal inoculation.

Key certifications include OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) listing, Non‑GMO Project Verification, and CDFA OIM (California Department of Food and Agriculture Organic Input Materials) registration, all of which appear on Dr. Earth products. These ensure the soil meets strict organic standards, contains no synthetic chemicals, and is safe for the environment. Selecting a product with multiple certifications gives confidence in its organic integrity.

The Exotic Blend Cactus & Succulent mix is engineered for excellent drainage while still retaining enough moisture for drought‑tolerant plants. The Gold Premium and Pot of Gold mixes contain Pro‑Moisture Hydrate and TruBiotic microbes, offering higher water‑holding capacity suitable for herbs, vegetables, and indoor gardens. Choose the cactus blend for fast‑drying conditions and the premium blends when you need more consistent moisture for moisture‑loving plants.