Comparison: Best Organic Self Watering Potting Mix (Updated | Nov 11th)
But with so many options out there, how do you know which one truly delivers? We’ve tested the top contenders to find the best blend that nourishes roots, retains moisture naturally, and supports thriving growth—without synthetic additives. Let’s dig into the details and help you pick the perfect mix for your green oasis.
- Best for water-smart indoor: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for large-batch indoor: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for 2-month feed: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for bulk indoor mix: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for pet-safe indoor: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA
- Best for all-purpose premium: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA
- Best for expandable coco-coir: 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 outdoor bulk feed: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for gnat-resistant house: Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix: Fertilized
- Best for universal organic blend: Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix – All Natural Potting Mix For All Indoor & Outdoor Containers Including Herbs & Vegetables. For Organic Gardening
Product Comparison: Best Organic Self Watering Potting Mix
Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix, Protects Against Over and Under Watering, for Indoor Container Plants, Houseplants and Starter Plants, OMRI Listed, 8 qt., 2-Pack
- 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
- This bundle includes two 8 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix; each bag fills two 8-inch containers (amounts may vary based on the size of the root ball)
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)
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 Organic Indoor Potting Mix, Protects Against Over and Under Watering, for Indoor Container Plants, Houseplants and Starter Plants, OMRI Listed, 16 qt., 2-Pack
- 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
- This bundle includes two 16 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix; each bag fills one 12-inch container (amounts may vary based on the size of the root ball)
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
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.
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, 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)
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
Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix – All Natural Potting Mix For All Indoor & Outdoor Containers Including Herbs & Vegetables. For Organic Gardening, 2 Cubic Foot bag. Pack of1
- 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.
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 in an organic potting mix for indoor plants?
Focus on mixes that contain peat moss or coir for moisture retention, plus a natural starter fertilizer to give seedlings a boost. Look for certifications like responsibly sourced peat or peat‑free formulations if sustainability matters. A blend with added mycorrhizae can improve root development and nutrient uptake.
How does Miracle‑Gro’s Organic Indoor Potting Mix compare to Back to the Roots’ indoor blend?
Miracle‑Gro uses a mix of peat moss, coir, and a quick‑start natural fertilizer, while Back to the Roots offers a peat‑free formula with yucca extract and mycorrhizae. The Miracle‑Gro option is widely available in 8‑qt and 16‑qt bags, whereas Back to the Roots comes in a 12‑qt value pack. If you prioritize a lower carbon footprint, the peat‑free mix may be more appealing.
Is there a benefit to buying a larger bag versus a smaller one?
Larger bags, such as the 16‑qt Miracle‑Gro Indoor Mix, provide a lower cost per quart and are convenient for multiple containers or larger pots. Smaller bags, like the 4‑qt Miracle‑Gro Houseplant Mix, are easier to store and reduce waste if you only need a little soil. Choose based on the number of plants you plan to pot and your storage space.
Which mix is best for outdoor container gardening?
Miracle‑Gro’s Organic Outdoor Potting Mix includes a quick‑release natural fertilizer that feeds plants for up to two months, making it ideal for seasonal vegetables and flowers. It’s formulated with responsibly sourced peat and works well in 12‑inch containers. For a peat‑free alternative, consider Back to the Roots Premium Mix, which is versatile for both indoor and outdoor use.
Do any of these mixes help reduce indoor pest problems like fungus gnats?
Miracle‑Gro’s Houseplant Potting Mix combines perlite, sphagnum, and peat moss, which creates a drier surface less attractive to gnats. Back to the Roots’ peat‑free blend omits bark and compost, also lowering the risk of gnats and other pests. Adding a layer of sand or using a soil with good drainage can further discourage infestations.
How important is the presence of mycorrhizae in a potting mix?
Mycorrhizae form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, enhancing nutrient and water absorption, especially in organic mixes. Both Back to the Roots and Espoma include mycorrhizal inoculants, while Miracle‑Gro’s blends rely on the organic fertilizer for nutrient availability. If you want extra root support, choose a mix that explicitly lists mycorrhizae.
What are the cost‑to‑value considerations when choosing between these brands?
Miracle‑Gro generally offers larger bag sizes at a competitive price per volume, making it a good value for bulk purchases. Back to the Roots positions itself as a premium, peat‑free option with added sustainability benefits, which may carry a slightly higher price tag. Weigh the importance of eco‑friendliness against budget constraints to decide which offers the best overall value.
Can I use an indoor mix for outdoor containers, or vice versa?
While indoor mixes like Miracle‑Gro’s Organic Indoor Potting Mix are formulated for controlled environments, they can work outdoors if the plants are sheltered and the soil drains well. Outdoor mixes contain fertilizers designed for harsher conditions and may be too nutrient‑rich for delicate indoor seedlings. For best results, match the mix to the plant’s location and watering routine.