Comparison: Best Just Natural Organic Potting Soil (Updated | Nov 11th)
But with so many options out there, how do you know which one truly delivers? We’ve dug deep (pun intended) to compare top contenders, evaluating ingredients, performance, and value. Whether you’re growing herbs on a windowsill or tomatoes in a raised bed, we’ll help you find the perfect organic match for thriving, vibrant plants—naturally.
- Best for quick-feed outdoor: 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 indoor root boost: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA
- Best for water guard indoor: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for versatile organic: Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix – All Natural Potting Mix For All Indoor & Outdoor Containers Including Herbs & Vegetables. For Organic Gardening
- Best for compressed coco boost: WONDER SOIL Organic Potting Soil | Ready to Plant Coco Coir Fully Loaded with Nutrients | 3 LBS Bag Expands to 12 Quarts of Indoor Outdoor Soil for Gardens & Plants | Incl Worm Castings
- Best for bulk outdoor mix: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for bundle outdoor value: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
Product Comparison: Best Just Natural Organic 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)
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.
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
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)
Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix – All Natural Potting Mix For All Indoor & Outdoor Containers Including Herbs & Vegetables. For Organic Gardening, 8qt. bag. Pack of 1
- FOR USE ON: Not just an indoor potting soil, this can also be used as a potting soil for outdoor plants and is a great soil mix for vegetables, herbs & all other container plants & flowers.
- CONTAINS: This organic soil for plants & vegetables is a rich blend of sphagnum peat moss, humus & perlite enriched with earthworm castings, alfalfa meal, kelp meal & feather meal
- MYCO-TONE: A proprietary blend of endo & ecto mycorrhizae.
- WHEN TO USE: Any time planting containers, whether starting a new plant or transplanting into a larger container. Plants require regular re-potting and fresh planting soil for optimum growth
- ORGANIC GARDENING: Contains a rich blend of only the finest natural ingredients. No synthetic plant foods or chemicals are used.
WONDER SOIL Organic Potting Soil | Ready to Plant Coco Coir Fully Loaded with Nutrients | 3 LBS Bag Expands to 12 Quarts of Indoor Outdoor Soil for Gardens & Plants | Incl Worm Castings, Perlite
- NUTRIENT RICH & INDOOR/OUTDOOR FAST GERMINATION… Wonder Soil Premium Organic Potting Soil Mix is the only dry compressed coco coir mix with added amendments of worm castings, mycorrhizae, kelp, perlite and more! Grow your plants faster with stronger roots! Peat free, all natural, family and pet safe!
- A LITTLE DOES A LOT… your little BIG bag of compressed indoor potting soil & garden soil for outdoor plants expands to 4 TIMES THE SIZE when mixed with water; easy to carry & saves vital shed space.
- PRE-MIXED & READY TO USE ORGANIC POTTING MIX … Pre-mixed and ready to use organic potting soil and garden soil mix to help make your gardening or hobby growing a breeze. Simply transplant your desired plants into their new container and add our soil mix or pour our soil mix and plant your seeds.
- WATER RETENTION & DRAINAGE… Coco coir has excellent water retention with dependable drainage and aeration in the root zone. Save up to 50% of water, fertilizer, and seed!
- HEAVY DUTY RESEALABLE BAG… Use what you need and save the rest for later! Keeping your planting soil dry and safe!
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)
Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix, for Outdoor Container Plants, Contains Quick-Release Natural Fertilizer, OMRI Listed, 16 qt., 2-Pack
- 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
- This bundle includes two 16 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix; each fills one 12-inch container (amounts may vary based 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 key ingredients should I look for in an organic potting mix?
Focus on mixes that contain natural fertilizers, mycorrhizae, and soil amendments like kelp or worm castings. These components improve nutrient availability and root development without synthetic chemicals. Peat‑free options, such as those using coco coir or upcycled plant matter, also lower the environmental impact.
How does Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor Mix compare to Back to the Roots Outdoor Mix?
Miracle‑Gro uses responsibly sourced peat and a quick‑release natural fertilizer that feeds plants for up to two months, while Back to the Roots offers a 100 % organic, peat‑free blend made from upcycled plant material. The former provides a familiar, nutrient‑dense formula, whereas the latter emphasizes sustainability and a lighter carbon footprint. Choose Miracle‑Gro for immediate feeding power, or Back to the Roots if you prioritize eco‑friendliness.
Is there a difference between indoor and outdoor organic mixes in terms of moisture control?
Yes. Indoor mixes like Miracle‑Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix and Back to the Roots Indoor Mix contain yucca extract or similar additives to help retain moisture and prevent over‑watering, which is crucial for houseplants. Outdoor mixes generally focus on drainage and nutrient release, relying on peat or coir for water retention but without the specialized indoor moisture regulators.
Which product offers the best value per container size?
Miracle‑Gro’s 25 qt. Outdoor Mix fills three 10‑inch containers, giving a lower cost per container compared to the 12 qt. bags from Back to the Roots or Espoma. However, if you need a peat‑free option, the compressed Wonder Soil expands fourfold, providing a compact, cost‑effective solution for both indoor and outdoor use.
Are any of these potting soils safe for pets and children?
Back to the Roots Indoor Mix and Wonder Soil both highlight that they are pet‑ and child‑safe, containing no bark, compost, or harmful chemicals that attract gnats. Miracle‑Gro mixes are organic but still include natural fertilizers; they are generally safe but may contain peat, which some pet owners prefer to avoid. Always check the label for any specific warnings.
What benefits do mycorrhizal fungi add to a potting mix?
Mycorrhizal fungi form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, enhancing nutrient uptake, especially phosphorus, and improving drought resistance. Both Espoma and Back to the Roots Indoor Mix include mycorrhizal inoculants, while Miracle‑Gro’s mixes rely on their natural fertilizer blend. Selecting a mix with mycorrhizae can lead to stronger, healthier plants over time.
How important is pH balance in an organic potting mix?
Maintaining a neutral to slightly acidic pH ensures nutrients remain available to plants. Several mixes, such as Back to the Roots and Miracle‑Gro Indoor, incorporate dolomitic limestone to stabilize pH. If you’re growing pH‑sensitive plants like blueberries, verify the mix’s pH range or be prepared to adjust it with amendments.
Which mix is best for seed starting versus transplanting?
For seed starting, Miracle‑Gro Organic Indoor Mix offers a fine texture and quick‑release fertilizer that supports early growth, while Back to the Roots Indoor Mix provides excellent moisture retention for germination. When transplanting larger seedlings or mature plants, the coarser texture of Miracle‑Gro Outdoor Mix or Espoma’s blend with perlite and peat gives better aeration and root space. Choose a finer, nutrient‑rich mix for seeds and a more robust, well‑draining mix for transplants.