Comparison: Best Peat Moss Perlite Worm Castings (Updated | Nov 11th)

DUSPRO blends include pine bark, gypsum, and a higher proportion of coco coir, while Wemoss replaces pine bark with clay pebbles and adds a dedicated pH‑balancing component. Both provide worm castings and peat moss, but Wemoss emphasizes a “6‑in‑1” formula that leans more on mineral aggregates for drainage. Choose DUSPRO if you prefer a broader ingredient list and gypsum for pH stability; choose Wemoss for a slightly lighter texture and clay pebbles that improve aeration.

Worm castings add organic nitrogen, phosphorus, and beneficial microbes, giving plants a richer nutrient start than a simple peat‑moss‑perlite mix, which is essentially inert. Pre‑mixed blends with castings can reduce the need for frequent fertilizing, especially for heavy‑feeding houseplants. However, if you plan to use regular liquid fertilizers, a basic mix may be sufficient and more cost‑effective.

Both DUSPRO 7‑in‑1 and Wemoss 6‑in‑1 are marketed as ready‑to‑use and suitable for aroids, but DUSPRO explicitly mentions testing on a wide range of tropical plants and includes gypsum for pH balance, which can be helpful for novices. Wemoss offers a slightly simpler ingredient list and includes clay pebbles that prevent over‑watering, making it forgiving for beginners. Either choice works, but DUSPRO may provide a marginally more comprehensive nutrient profile.

Germination mixes such as Old Potters are formulated with fine peat, perlite, and vermiculite to retain moisture and support delicate seedlings, making them ideal for seed starting, cuttings, or plug trays. General indoor potting soils contain larger aggregates and worm castings that are better suited for established plants that need stronger drainage. Use a germination mix for the earliest growth stages, then transition to a richer indoor mix for mature foliage.

Gypsum (calcium sulfate) and lime (calcium carbonate) help stabilize pH and supply calcium, which can prevent nutrient lockout in acidic peat‑based mixes. DUSPRO includes gypsum, while Gardenera’s grapefruit mix adds lime to raise pH for citrus, showing the benefit of targeted pH adjustment. If you grow plants sensitive to pH swings, choosing a mix with one of these additives can reduce the need for separate amendments.

Bulk bags (e.g., 20‑quart or 8‑quart) typically lower the cost per quart by 15‑30 % compared with 1‑quart packages, making them more economical for avid gardeners or multiple plant projects. Smaller sizes are convenient for testing a new mix or for occasional repotting, but the per‑unit price is higher. If you plan to use the soil regularly, buying in bulk delivers clear value without sacrificing quality.

Perlite provides excellent drainage and aeration with a lightweight structure, while vermiculite retains more moisture and can improve water holding capacity. Pumice offers both drainage and a slightly higher mineral content, helping to buffer pH. For plants that dislike soggy roots, such as succulents or aroids, a mix emphasizing perlite or pumice is preferable; for seed germination or moisture‑loving species, vermiculite can be beneficial.

Yes, combining Hoffman peat moss with perlite (and optionally vermiculite) can mimic the moisture retention and drainage balance found in premium mixes. Adding a modest amount of worm castings or a slow‑release fertilizer will further approximate the nutrient profile of blends like DUSPRO or Wemoss. While DIY blends can be cost‑effective, they may lack the precise ratios and added micronutrients that commercial mixes guarantee.