Comparison: Best Organic Soilless Potting Mix (Updated | Nov 11th)
Not all organic soilless blends are created equal—some boost growth and root health, while others fall short. We’ve tested top contenders to find which ones deliver real results, from ingredient quality to moisture retention and nutrient availability. Whether you’re into hydroponics, container gardening, or just want cleaner, chemical-free growth, we’ll help you pick the **best organic soilless potting mix** that actually works—no hype, just honest insights from hands-on experience.
Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA
Eco-Friendly All-Purpose
- Best for eco-friendly all-purpose: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA
- Best for chunky water-flow: Forbidden Cereal Soilless Houseplant Potting Mix – Chunky Soil for Aroid Tropical Plants & Flowers – 8 Ingredients
- Best for gnat-resistant drainage: Molly’s Aroid Mix – Premium Soilless Potting Mix for Houseplants – Fast Draining
- 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 moisture balanced: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for long-lasting feed: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for peat-free premium: Craft Aroid Potting Mix- Elite Organic Alocasia
- Best for professional lightweight: Esbenshade’s Professional Lightweight Potting Mix
- Best for all-natural myco: Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix – All Natural Potting Mix For All Indoor & Outdoor Containers Including Herbs & Vegetables. For Organic Gardening
Product Comparison: Best Organic Soilless Potting Mix
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.
Forbidden Cereal Soilless Houseplant Potting Mix – Chunky Soil for Aroid Tropical Plants & Flowers – 8 Ingredients, No More Overwatering, Versatile Moisture Retention, Peat Free & Organic – 6.5QT Bag
- Compatible with your Favourite Plants: Our potting mix is optimized to grow and support all indoor & outdoor potted plants. Popular plants include Monstera, Pothos, Snake Plant, ZZ Plant, Fiddle Leaf Fig, Philodendron, Peace Lily, Alocasia, Anthurium, Dracaena, Hoya, Orchids, Spider Plant, Aloe Vera, Rubber Plants, Diffenbachia and more!
- Professional Grade Ingredients: Forbidden Cereal is made with 8 Organic Premium Grade amendments. We use hand sorted, heat treated Douglas Fir bark, also called Orchid Bark. Fine & Coarse Perlite, Triple Washed Coco Coir, Coconut Fiber and Coco Chips. Horticultural Charcoal also known as Biochar. Ultra rich Earth Worms Castings, Natural looking LECA Expanded Clay Balls and New Zealand Sphagnum Moss.
- Overwatering is Forbidden: We formulated our mix to be Earth’s Chunkiest Potting mix! Not only does it look like a delicious bowl of cereal, the super chunkiness serves an important purpose. It allows water to flow freely through your container garden and does not restrict root growth which increases the amount of air your roots have access to. Thus preventing root rot, yellow leaves, plant deficiencies and slow plant growth.
- Separated Sphagnum Moss: We blend the mix for even distribution of all components except the moss, which we thoughtfully layer on top. This allows you to customize its use, whether as a moisture-retaining topper, moisture retention at the root level, a propagation aid, or something else entirely, delivering unmatched functionality and consistency that’s one-of-a-kind.
- No Dirt Bags Allowed: We replaced all Soils and Peat Moss with ingredients that are renewable. Peat and Soil retain substantial moisture, often worsening the common challenges gardeners face. Our unique formulation buffers water to a neutral Ph maximizing nutrient absorption from all fertilizers and plant food.
Molly’s Aroid Mix – Premium Soilless Potting Mix for Houseplants – Fast Draining, Chunky & Easier to Water vs. Soil for Indoor Plants – with Bark, Coco Chips, Worm Castings, Mycorrhizae 10 Dry Quarts
- HELPS PREVENT YELLOWING LEAVES, BROWN SPOTS & OVER-WATERING: A chunky, well-aerated mix that drains quickly, won’t compact, and is nearly impossible to over-water.
- A CLEANER ALTERNATIVE TO SOIL-BASED MIXES: Unlike traditional potting soil, Molly’s Potting Mixes are soil-free and gnat-resistant, providing a cleaner, healthier way to grow indoor plants.
- ORGANIC, MINERAL, & pH-BALANCED: Molly’s Aroid Mix is perfectly balanced for container plants, ensuring strong root development, optimal nutrient absorption, and long-term plant health.
- ENHANCED WITH BENEFICIAL MYCORRHIZAE: Super-powered mycorrhizae strengthen the plant’s root systems and help with nutrient and water absorption and the promotion of natural defense systems.
- LONG-LASTING & EASY TO USE: Molly’s Aroid Mix lasts longer than traditional potting soils, reducing the need for frequent repotting. Made from responsibly sourced ingredients, it comes in a heat-sealed, resealable, recyclable bag to stay fresh between uses.
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)
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)
Craft Aroid Potting Mix- Elite Organic Alocasia, Philodendron, Monstera Soil Mix, Chunky, Well Draining Potting Soil for Indoor Plants, All Tropical Plants & Houseplants, Perlite & Peat Free 2QT
- NUTRIENT RICH & PLANT FOOD COMPATIBLE: Our tropical plant soil is full of living beneficial microbes. Enriched with essential nutrients, organic matter, and worm castings, this tropical potting soil works perfectly with Grow Queen Organic All-Purpose Plant Food for robust and healthy growth.
- READY TO USE AND PET FRIENDLY: Pre-mixed and moist, this monstera potting mix is ready to use straight out of the bag, offering convenience for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. Plus, this houseplant potting soil is safe for homes with pets, ensuring a non-toxic environment for your furry friends.
- CERTIFIED ORGANIC COCO COIR: Our coco coir is certified organic and sourced from a farm using sustainable farming strategies. It’s washed more times for salt than the competition, making it some of the cleanest, highest-grade coco coir on the market.
- PEAT- FREE AND PERLITE- FREE: Harvesting peat releases significant carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change, and depletes biodiverse habitats. Perlite production is energy-intensive, involving heating volcanic glass to high temperatures. Instead, we use eco-friendly pumice and lava rock—natural volcanic rocks requiring no additional processing—which enhance soil structure and drainage in this indoor potting soil for house plants.
- OPTIMAL DRAINAGE, ENHANCED AERATION, and ROOT HEALTH: This chunky aroid mix features large Douglas fir bark fines, lava rock, and pumice, which enhance aeration for instant drainage and consistent airflow. This makes it almost impossible to overwater, preventing root rot and ensuring your Monstera, Hoya, Pothos, ZZ plant, and Thai Constellation Monstera thrive.
- MADE WITH NEW ZEALAND TREE FERN FIBER: New Zealand Tree Fern Fiber is especially beneficial to Alocasias, Anthuriums, and all tropical plants, this house plant soil acts as a soil conditioner and neutralizes pH down to 6.0, mimicking the natural pH of native tropical plant soil.
- OPTIMAL WITH ALL PLANTS: Built for Tropicals but optimal for all popular houseplants including, Pothos, Hoyas, African Violets, Fiddle Leaf Fig, Snake Plants, String of Pearls, Palms, Begonias and Even Drought Friendly Plants like Succulents and Cactus.
Esbenshade’s Professional Lightweight Potting Mix, 44 Quart Bag – Soilless Blend for Indoor/Outdoor Plants – Raised Beds & Containers – Peat Moss, Perlite, Bark, Lime
- Balanced Soilless Potting Mix: Contains Canadian sphagnum peat moss, perlite, pine bark, and lime to support healthy root growth, drainage, and airflow.
- Indoor & Outdoor Use: Ideal for potted plants, container gardens, hanging baskets, and raised beds when blended with organic soil amendments.
- Lightweight & Airy Texture: Specially blended to allow optimal airflow and moisture retention, helping roots thrive in any environment; comes in a convenient 44-quart bag.
- Locally Mixed in the USA: Mixed in Lancaster County, PA – known as the “Garden Spot of America” – by experienced horticulturist professionals.
- Trusted by Professionals: Formulated and used by gardening experts. Satisfaction is guaranteed for home gardeners and plant lovers alike.
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.
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Buying Guide
FAQs
What factors should I consider when choosing an organic soilless potting mix for indoor plants?
Look for drainage and aeration, pH balance, and any added biological inoculants such as mycorrhizae or worm castings. Check whether the mix is peat‑free if you want a lower carbon footprint, and verify if it’s pet‑safe and gnat‑resistant. Finally, compare the recommended plant types to ensure the blend suits your specific foliage, whether herbs, aroids, or succulents.
How does Back to the Roots’ 100% Organic Potting Mix differ from its Indoor version?
The standard 12‑quart mix is marketed as an all‑purpose blend for both indoor and outdoor use, while the Indoor version adds yucca extract for moisture retention and emphasizes a pet‑safe formula. Both are peat‑free and contain dolomitic limestone for pH balance, but the Indoor mix highlights mycorrhizae to boost root development in confined spaces. The packaging and guarantee are similar, offering a 100% satisfaction promise.
Which mix offers the best drainage and aeration for aroids like Monstera and Philodendron?
Molly’s Aroid Mix and Craft Aroid Potting Mix both prioritize chunky, well‑aerated structures that drain quickly and resist compaction. Molly’s includes mycorrhizae and a mineral‑balanced formula, while Craft Aroid uses eco‑friendly pumice, lava rock, and large Douglas fir bark fines for superior airflow. Either choice will minimize root rot and promote vigorous growth of aroids.
Are there any mixes that are particularly pet‑friendly or gnat‑resistant?
Back to the Roots Indoor Potting Mix is formulated without bark or compost, making it less attractive to gnats and safe for pets. Molly’s Aroid Mix also advertises a soil‑free, gnat‑resistant composition and uses a resealable bag to keep the mix fresh. Both provide peace of mind for households with curious animals or children.
How do the premium ingredients in Forbidden Cereal compare to the more traditional blends like Espoma or Miracle‑Gro?
Forbidden Cereal uses hand‑sorted Douglas fir bark, triple‑washed coco coir, biochar, and layered sphagnum moss, creating a chunky, highly aerated medium that emphasizes over‑watering prevention. Traditional blends such as Espoma and Miracle‑Gro rely more on peat moss, perlite, and standard organic amendments, offering good moisture retention but less aggressive drainage. If you prioritize a light, air‑filled mix for tropical houseplants, Forbidden Cereal stands out.
Which product provides the most value per quart, considering price and performance?
Esbenshade’s Professional Lightweight Potting Mix comes in a 44‑quart bag, delivering a large volume at a lower cost per quart while still offering balanced drainage and airflow. Back to the Roots’ 12‑quart value pack also offers a competitive price with a versatile all‑purpose formula. For premium performance on a tighter budget, the larger Esbenshade bag often delivers the best cost‑to‑quality ratio.
What are the environmental advantages of peat‑free mixes such as Back to the Roots and Craft Aroid?
Peat‑free formulations avoid extracting peat, which reduces carbon emissions and protects peatland ecosystems that store vast amounts of carbon. Both Back to the Roots and Craft Aroid replace peat with renewable materials like wood fines, coconut coir, and volcanic rock, resulting in a lighter carbon footprint. Additionally, these mixes often use upcycled or responsibly sourced ingredients, further enhancing sustainability.
How important is the inclusion of mycorrhizae or worm castings, and which mixes contain them?
Mycorrhizae and worm castings improve nutrient uptake, support healthier root systems, and can increase plant resilience to stress. Back to the Roots Indoor Mix, Molly’s Aroid Mix, and Espoma Organic Potting Soil all list mycorrhizal inoculants, while Molly’s and Espoma specifically highlight worm castings. Choosing a mix with these bio‑additives can give your plants a noticeable growth boost, especially in container environments.