Comparison: Best Green All Potting Soil (Updated | Nov 11th)
We’ve dug deep—literally—to compare top contenders, testing for texture, nutrients, sustainability, and plant performance. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, we’ll help you find the perfect mix that’s as kind to the planet as it is to your plants. Let’s get growing—responsibly.
- Best for quick-release fertilizer: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for microbe-boosted blend: FoxFarm Happy Frog Potting Soil
- Best for gnat-resistant mix: Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix: Fertilized
- Best for all-purpose premium: FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil
- Best for big-bag organic: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for living soil blend: Gaia Green Organics Living Soil
- Best for herb-friendly mix: Herbs and Leafy Greens Soil – Premium Organic Nutrient-Rich Potting Mix for Basil
- Best for six-month feed: Miracle-Gro Potting Mix
- Best for bulk microbial soil: FoxFarm Happy Frog Potting Soil
- Best for moisture-lock formula: Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix
Product Comparison: Best Green All Potting Soil
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)
FoxFarm Happy Frog Potting Soil, 12qt – for Indoor/Outdoor Container Plants, Improves Root Efficiency, pH Adjusted for Optimal Nutrient Uptake – Contains Microbes and Humic Acids
- TOP-TIER SOIL FOR BOUNTIFUL GROWTH: FoxFarm organic potting soil for indoor plants is a blend that boosts both indoor and outdoor gardening. Our planting soil enhances root development and plant health, making it a top choice for flourishing growth
- MICROBE-INFUSED SOIL FOR SUPER ROOTS: Enriched with soil microbes, mycorrhizal fungi, and humic acids, this indoor potting soil for house plants promotes efficient nutrient uptake and boosts root growth by improving root systems and plant vitality
- ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS FOR THRIVING PLANTS: The garden soil for outdoor plants contains bat guano, earthworm castings, and aged forest products, all essential for enhanced nutrient levels, soil structure, and soil vital organic matter for healthy plants
- OPTIMAL SOIL FOR LUSH CONTAINER BLOOM: Ideal for container gardens, fox farms happy frog potting soil for vegetables’ balanced texture and content is suitable for a wide range of plants including flowers, vegetables, shrubs, and houseplants
- READY-TO-USE CONVENIENT SOIL: Simply fill your container with garden fertilizer houseplant potting soil indoor plants, leaving 1 inch below the rim. Water thoroughly after planting. For best results, supplement growth all the seasons with Fox Farm fertilizers
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
FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil, 12qt – Light, Aerated Texture, Designed for All Container Plants – pH Adjusted for Optimal Nutrient Uptake, Effectively Retains Moisture (12 Quart (1 Pack))
- ALL-IN-ONE POTTING SOIL SOLUTION: FoxFarm ocean forest potting soil is a blend designed to give your plants everything they need to thrive. Ideal for container plants, this planting soil provides optimal nutrient and soil aeration
- MOISTURE-LOCKING NUTRIENT BLEND: This organic potting soil for plant is packed with aged forest products, sphagnum peat moss, earthworm castings, bat guano, and fish emulsion, each ingredient enhances moisture retention and nutrient uptake
- TOP-NOTCH SOIL FOR EVERY PLANT: From roses and shrubs to seedlings and trees, this garden soil supports vigorous growth and branching. This outdoor & indoor plant soil’s pH-adjusted blend promotes healthy, lush foliage for all plant varieties
- YOUR GO-TO SOIL FOR ALL MEDIUMS: Our potting soil mix is perfect for container gardens, houseplants, and outdoor setups. Ocean plant versatile blend provides a balanced environment for robust growth, ensuring your plants thrive in any setting
- CONVENIENT SOIL READY TO USE: This houseplant potting soil is ready to use out of the bag, no additional ingredients are needed. Use for planting or top-dressing, with the optional pairing of FoxFarm liquid fertilizers for enhanced growth all season
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)
Gaia Green Organics Living Soil, 1.5 cu ft | Premium Organic Potting Mix for Seed Starting, Container Gardening, Houseplants & Raised Beds
- 🌱 Rich in Premium Organic Ingredients – Contains high-quality components like compost, peat moss, perlite, and diverse natural minerals that promote healthy soil biology and plant vitality.
- 💧 Optimal Moisture & Porosity – Engineered to maintain excellent moisture retention while allowing roots to breathe, creating an ideal root environment.
- 🦠 Packed with Beneficial Microbes – This biologically active soil enhances microbial diversity, supporting natural soil ecosystems that contribute to resilient, healthy plants.
- 🌍 Certified Organic Input Material – Registered with CDFA, ensuring the soil meets strict organic standards, ideal for those who prioritize sustainable gardening practices.
- 🌿 Versatile for All Gardening Needs – Perfect for a range of uses, from seed starting to container gardening and raised beds, providing consistent support through each growth stage.
Herbs and Leafy Greens Soil – Premium Organic Nutrient-Rich Potting Mix for Basil, Mint, Lettuce, Spinach, Arugula & More – Fast Growth, Healthy Roots, Ready to Use! (4 QTS)
- ✔ VERSATILE BLEND: Premium potting mix specifically formulated for growing herbs and leafy greens indoors with optimal drainage and aeration
- ✔ NUTRIENT-RICH: Contains essential nutrients and organic matter to support healthy root development and vigorous plant growth
- ✔ INDOOR GROWING: Perfect for windowsill gardens, container herbs, and indoor vegetable planters with moisture-retaining properties
- ✔ SOIL TEXTURE: Light and fluffy consistency allows roots to easily spread while maintaining proper moisture levels
- ✔ GROWING CAPACITY: Suitable for multiple plant varieties including basil, mint, parsley, lettuce, and other common kitchen herbs
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)
FoxFarm Happy Frog Potting Soil, 2cu ft – for Indoor/Outdoor Container Plants, Improves Root Efficiency, pH Adjusted for Optimal Nutrient Uptake – Contains Mycorrhizae and Humic Acids
- You will receive (1) 2-cubic foot bag of potting soil per purchase.
- Amended with soil microbes that improve root efficiency and convert nutrients into a form that plants can utilize, enhancing fruit and flower production.
- Designed for container plants, indoor or outdoor. Whether you need a boost in your fruits, vegetables, flowers, or houseplants – Happy Frog will jump-start your containers!
- This unique mix is alive with beneficial soil microbes and mycorrhizal fungi that dramatically expands root development.
- A blend of 50-60% aged forest products, sphagnum peat moss, perlite, and fertilizer. Derived from earthworm castings, oyster shell and dolomite lime.
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)
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
How do I choose between an organic outdoor mix and an indoor mix for my containers?
Outdoor mixes like Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor and FoxFarm Ocean Forest contain higher levels of slow‑release fertilizers and peat to support robust growth in harsher conditions, while indoor mixes such as Miracle‑Gro Houseplant Potting Mix focus on lighter texture, better drainage, and reduced pest attraction. Consider the plant type, exposure to elements, and whether you need extra nutrient buffering for longer periods. If you grow primarily inside, a lighter, perlite‑rich blend will prevent waterlogging; for outdoor containers, a richer, moisture‑retentive formula is usually best.
What are the main nutrient differences between Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor, FoxFarm Happy Frog, and FoxFarm Ocean Forest?
Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor includes a quick‑release natural fertilizer that feeds for up to two months, whereas Happy Frog adds bat guano, earthworm castings, and mycorrhizal fungi for a broader spectrum of macro‑ and micronutrients. Ocean Forest goes further with a blend of aged forest products, fish emulsion, and additional bat guano, delivering a higher organic matter content and longer‑lasting nutrient release. Choose Happy Frog for a balanced, microbe‑rich soil, Ocean Forest for maximum organic richness, or Miracle‑Gro for a straightforward, fast‑acting feed.
Which product gives the best value per container volume?
The 25‑qt. bag of Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor fills roughly three 10‑inch containers, offering a low cost per pot compared with the 12‑qt. bags of FoxFarm mixes that fill one 12‑inch container each. However, the 2‑cu ft. Happy Frog bag provides the largest total volume and can cover many containers, making it the most economical for large‑scale projects despite a higher upfront price.
How important are microbial additives, and how do they differ across the mixes?
Microbial inoculants like mycorrhizal fungi and beneficial bacteria improve root efficiency, nutrient uptake, and overall plant vigor. Happy Frog and its 2‑cu ft. version are heavily inoculated with microbes, while Ocean Forest includes a modest amount of microbes within its organic blend. Miracle‑Gro mixes generally lack explicit microbial claims, so if soil biology is a priority, Happy Frog offers the strongest boost.
Are there any sustainability considerations regarding peat in these products?
Both Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor mixes state that 100 % of their peat is sourced from certified, responsibly managed peatlands, reducing environmental impact. FoxFarm blends also contain peat but do not specify certification, so they may have a larger carbon footprint. For gardeners focused on sustainability, the certified‑peat Miracle‑Gro options are the safer choice.
Which potting mix is best suited for growing herbs and leafy greens indoors?
The Herbs and Leafy Greens Soil is formulated specifically for indoor herb production, offering a light, fluffy texture and balanced nutrients for rapid leaf growth. Miracle‑Gro Houseplant Potting Mix is also a good alternative thanks to its perlite‑peat blend that deters gnats and provides steady moisture. Avoid heavy, high‑fertilizer outdoor mixes, as they can cause excessive growth and nutrient burn in delicate herb foliage.
How does moisture retention compare among the Moisture Control mix and the standard mixes?
Miracle‑Gro Moisture Control uses an AquaCoir formula that absorbs up to 33 % more water than typical peat‑based mixes, helping prevent both over‑ and under‑watering. Standard mixes like Ocean Forest and Happy Frog rely on peat and perlite, offering good retention but requiring more frequent monitoring. For beginners or hot climates, Moisture Control provides a forgiving environment, while seasoned growers may prefer the traditional feel of the other blends.
What should I know about bag sizes and how many containers each will fill?
Bag sizes range from 4 qt. (Miracle‑Gro Houseplant) to 2 cu ft. (Happy Frog), with larger bags generally filling more containers per unit. A 16‑qt. Miracle‑Gro Outdoor bag fills one 12‑inch pot, while a 25‑qt. bag fills about three 10‑inch pots; the 2‑cu ft. Happy Frog bag can fill dozens of standard 12‑inch containers. Match the bag size to the scale of your project to avoid waste and ensure consistent soil depth across all pots.