Comparison: Best Nature’S Own Potting Soil (Updated | Dec 1st)
In this down-to-earth comparison, we’ll dig into the key differences in ingredients, moisture control, and plant performance to help you pick the perfect mix. Trust us—your tomatoes, herbs, and houseplants will thank you. Let’s find the best bag for your garden needs.
- Best for organic outdoor boost: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for gnat-resistant indoor: Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix: Fertilized
- Best for all-nutrient ocean: FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil
- Best for peat-free organic: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA
- Best for moisture-control super: Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix
- Best for long-lasting growth: Miracle-Gro Potting Mix
- Best for high-yield super: California Super Soil Premium 100% Organic Super Soil – 18+ Nutrient Blend – Living Soil Technology – Potting and Garden Soil for Indoor Grow Kit – 6Lbs Bag – Grows 2 Plants
- Best for water-balanced organic: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for slow-release power: Sun Gro Horticulture 8-Quart Black Gold 1310102 Purpose Potting Soil With Control
- Best for coco coir 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
Product Comparison: Best Nature’S Own 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)
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
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 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)
California Super Soil Premium 100% Organic Super Soil – 18+ Nutrient Blend – Living Soil Technology – Potting and Garden Soil for Indoor Grow Kit – 6Lbs Bag – Grows 2 Plants
- 5% SOIL AND 95% NUTRIENTS: California Super Soil is a highly concentrated super soil designed specifically for vegetating and flowering plants. California Super Soil allows growers to achieve higher yeilds while also making the growing process cheaper and easier!
- GOOD LIVING SOIL TECHNOLOGY: All growers will love the living soil technology of California Super Soil since there is no need for advanced nutrients or plant food ever for your vegetable garden. Simply add soils media and regular tap water and that’s it!
- ORGANIC SOIL MIX: Most other indoor plant food and garden soil products are manufactured using process ingredients that cannot be properly absorbed into the soil, unlike ours. The 18+ nature’s nutrient blend ensures your vegetable plants get off to the right start and then continue growing strong right up to harvest.
- MADE EASY GARDEN SOIL MIX: Fermented for just over 2 months allows microbes to begin breaking down amendments and cycling them into plant forms. This prevents any burning from the soil to make certain the best possible growth with our indoor growing soil blend in your indoor garden.
- INDOOR PLANT SOIL KIT INCLUDES: (x2) 6lb bags of Cali Super Soil. This kit will keep you on track with your grow by providing enough for another bulk of plants, or one big grow! Check out our full inventory of items that work hand in hand with our soil like our hydroponics growing system and other hydroponics supplies for your indoor gardening.
- BEST SUPER SOIL: To grow the best, you need the top planting soil. Our new California Super Soil is all you need for the best growing results without using any harsh chemicals. A nutrient rich artisanal soil formulated throughout the years in research and development to result in a final blend unmatched by others
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)
Sun Gro Horticulture 8-Quart Black Gold 1310102 Purpose Potting Soil With Control, Brown/A
- A slow-release complete fertilizer is added to give plants a strong start
- Made with Canadian sphagnum peat moss with worm castings, forest humus, and pumice
- This product is made in United States
- Now with MultiCote controlled release fertilizer
- A multi purpose, nutrient rich mix that’s ideal for all plants
- Now with MultiCote controlled release fertilizer
- A multi purpose, nutrient rich mix that’s ideal for all plants
- For house plants
- Hanging baskets
- Patio containers
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!
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 between an outdoor and an indoor potting mix?
Outdoor mixes need higher water retention and a balanced nutrient blend to withstand temperature swings, while indoor mixes benefit from lighter textures and reduced pest attraction. Look for features like quick‑release fertilizers for outdoor use (e.g., Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor) and perlite or sphagnum blends that deter gnats for indoor use (e.g., Miracle‑Gro Houseplant). Also check the recommended container size and fill rate to ensure the mix will fill your pots without excess waste.
How do the nutrient delivery systems differ among the Miracle‑Gro products?
Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor and Indoor mixes contain a natural, quick‑release fertilizer that feeds plants for up to two months, whereas the standard Miracle‑Gro Potting Mix and Moisture Control versions claim up to six months of feeding. The Moisture Control blend adds an AquaCoir formula that holds 33% more water, extending nutrient availability. For indoor growers who prefer less frequent feeding, the Organic Indoor mix’s balanced peat‑coir blend is a good middle ground.
Is FoxFarm Ocean Forest worth the premium price compared to other all‑purpose soils?
FoxFarm Ocean Forest packs a blend of aged forest products, bat guano, fish emulsion, and earthworm castings, delivering a richer nutrient profile than most standard mixes. Its pH‑adjusted, aerated texture supports vigorous growth for both container gardens and houseplants, which can justify the higher cost for demanding growers. If you need a single, ready‑to‑use formula without adding extra amendments, Ocean Forest offers strong value.
What are the sustainability benefits of a peat‑free mix like Back to the Roots?
Back to the Roots uses upcycled plant material and wood fines, eliminating the environmental impact of peat extraction and reducing carbon footprint. The blend includes yucca extract for moisture control and dolomitic limestone for pH balance, providing performance comparable to peat‑based soils. For eco‑conscious gardeners, this mix offers a greener alternative without sacrificing plant health.
Which potting mix provides the longest feeding period for my plants?
Both Miracle‑Gro Moisture Control and the standard Miracle‑Gro Potting Mix claim up to six months of nutrient release, making them the longest‑lasting options in the lineup. The Organic Outdoor mix feeds for about two months, while the Indoor and Houseplant mixes focus more on balanced texture than extended feeding. If you prefer fewer fertilizing intervals, choose one of the six‑month formulas.
How important is moisture control, and which product excels at it?
Consistent moisture is critical to prevent root rot and drought stress, especially in container gardening. Miracle‑Gro Moisture Control uses an AquaCoir formula that absorbs up to 33% more water than typical soils, helping maintain steady moisture levels. For indoor growers worried about over‑watering, the Houseplant mix’s perlite‑rich blend also offers good drainage while reducing gnats.
Does buying a larger bag provide better value, and how do I calculate it?
Larger bags generally lower the cost per quart, but you must consider how many containers you plan to fill. For example, a 16‑qt bag of Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor fills a 12‑inch pot, while a 4‑qt bag of the Houseplant mix only fills an 8‑inch pot, making the larger bag more economical for bigger projects. Compare the price per cubic foot and match it to your garden’s container sizes to avoid excess leftover mix.
Are there any special considerations for container size and fill rates across these mixes?
Yes, each product lists a recommended fill rate: 16‑qt bags typically fill a 12‑inch pot, 8‑qt bags cover two 8‑inch pots, and the 12‑qt FoxFarm bag works well for medium‑sized containers. Over‑filling can lead to poor drainage, while under‑filling reduces root space. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidance on how much mix to use per pot size to ensure optimal growth.