Comparison: Best Potting Mix Menards (Updated | Nov 11th)

With so many choices lining the shelves, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry—we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. From moisture control to organic ingredients, we’ll break down what really matters so you can pick the potting mix that helps your garden thrive, not just survive.

Product Comparison: Best Potting Mix Menards

Organic Earth Blend

Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA

Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA

Back to the Roots
  • 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.

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Gnat-Resistant Indoor

Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix: Fertilized, Perlite Soil for Indoor Gardening, Designed to Be Less Prone to Gnats, 4 qt.

Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix: Fertilized, Perlite Soil for Indoor Gardening, Designed to Be Less Prone to Gnats, 4 qt.

Miracle-Gro
  • 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

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Organic Outdoor Feed

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, for Outdoor Container Plants, Contains Quick-Release Natural Fertilizer, OMRI Listed, 16 qt.

Miracle-Gro
  • 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)

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AquaCoir Moisture

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, For Container Plants, Protects against Over- and Under-Watering, 8 qt., 2-Pack

Miracle-Gro
  • 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)

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Growth Boost Mix

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, For Container Plants, Flowers, Vegetables, Annuals, Perennials, Shrubs, Feeds for up to 6 Months, 16. qt., 2-Pack

Miracle-Gro
  • 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)

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Fast-Drain Succulent

Miracle-Gro Cactus, Palm and Citrus Potting Mix, for Indoor or Outdoor Potted Plants, Great for Succulents, 8 qt., 2-Pack

Miracle-Gro Cactus, Palm and Citrus Potting Mix, for Indoor or Outdoor Potted Plants, Great for Succulents, 8 qt., 2-Pack

Miracle-Gro
  • Miracle-Gro Cactus, Palm & Citrus Potting Mix features a fast-draining formula and is enriched with Miracle-Gro Plant Food
  • This fast-draining formula is blended to help promote successful growing of cacti, potted palms, citrus, and other succulents
  • This cactus potting mix is designed for indoor and outdoor container plants, including cacti, palm plants, citrus trees, and succulents
  • To use this succulent soil mix, fill a pot with a drainage hole 1/3 full of mix, top with more mix after placing plant, and press lightly
  • This bundle includes two 8 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Cactus, Palm & Citrus Potting Mix, each able to fill two 8-inch containers (amounts may vary based on root ball size)

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Balanced Indoor Organic

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 Against Over and Under Watering, for Indoor Container Plants, Houseplants and Starter Plants, OMRI Listed, 16 qt.

Miracle-Gro
  • 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)

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Coir Gnat-Resistant

Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, Blended for a Variety of Houseplants, Feeds for up to 6 Months, 16 qt., 2-Pack

Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, Blended for a Variety of Houseplants, Feeds for up to 6 Months, 16 qt., 2-Pack

Miracle-Gro
  • Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix feeds houseplants for up to 6 months and is designed to be less prone to gnats (contains no compost or bark, which are known to shelter fungus gnats)
  • This potting mix contains coconut coir, which holds and releases water and helps soil re-wet
  • Where to use: Blended for a wide variety of indoor container plants, including climbing, foliage, flowering, and tropical plants
  • How to use: To use, fill a container about 1/3 full with potting mix; add more mix after placing your plant in the pot
  • What’s included: This bundles includes two 16 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix, each able to fill one 12-inch containers (exact amount may vary based on the root ball size)

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Mycorrhiza Boost

Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA

Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA

Back to the Roots
  • 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

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Seed Starter

Miracle-Gro Seed Starting Potting Mix, 8 Quarts (Pack of 2), For Use in Containers

Miracle-Gro Seed Starting Potting Mix, 8 Quarts (Pack of 2), For Use in Containers

Miracle-Gro
  • Specially formulated for fast root development
  • Enriched with Miracle-Gro Plant Food
  • Excellent for starting cuttings
  • Use when starting from seed and with leaf, stem or root cuttings
  • This bundle includes two 8 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Seed Starting Potting Mix

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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

Buying Guide: Best Potting Mix Menards

Organic vs Synthetic Options

  • Back to the Roots and Miracle‑Gro Organic mixes are 100% organic, peat‑free or responsibly sourced peat
  • Synthetic mixes like Miracle‑Gro Houseplant and Indoor provide quick‑release fertilizers
  • Consider environmental impact and pet safety when choosing organic formulations

Moisture Management

  • Moisture‑Control mix uses AquaCoir to absorb up to 33% more water
  • Back to the Roots includes yucca extract for balanced moisture retention
  • Perlite‑rich formulas (Houseplant, Cactus) improve drainage and reduce gnats

Indoor vs Outdoor Use

  • Indoor mixes (Back to the Roots Indoor, Miracle‑Gro Indoor) are formulated for low‑gnat environments
  • Outdoor mixes (Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor, Cactus Palm Citrus) offer fast‑draining blends for sun exposure
  • Check label for suitability with houseplants, containers, or garden beds

Nutrient Content & Feeding Duration

  • Moisture‑Control and standard Miracle‑Gro mixes feed plants up to 6 months
  • Organic Outdoor provides a natural fertilizer lasting about 2 months
  • Seed Starting mix is enriched for rapid root development during germination

Package Size & Value

  • 12‑qt value packs (Back to the Roots) are ideal for moderate indoor collections
  • 16‑qt bags (Miracle‑Gro Outdoor, Indoor) fill one 12‑inch container per bag
  • Bundle options (two 8‑qt bags) offer flexibility for multiple small pots

FAQs

What should I look for when choosing a potting mix for indoor houseplants?

Focus on moisture retention, pH balance, and pest resistance. Mixes that contain coconut coir or yucca extract help keep soil evenly moist, while added limestone stabilizes pH. Organic, peat‑free formulas also reduce the risk of fungus gnats and are safer around pets.

How does the Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix compare to Miracle‑Gro Indoor Potting Mix?

Back to the Roots is fully organic, peat‑free, and includes yucca extract for moisture control, making it environmentally friendly and pet‑safe. Miracle‑Gro Indoor Mix uses coconut coir and a proprietary blend that feeds plants for up to six months and is formulated to deter gnats. Both perform well, but the Back to the Roots mix offers a greener footprint, while Miracle‑Gro provides longer‑term fertilization.

Which potting mix is best for container vegetables and herbs grown outdoors?

Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix is designed for outdoor containers and includes a quick‑release natural fertilizer that feeds plants for about two months. It also uses responsibly sourced peat and works well with a variety of vegetables, herbs, and annuals. For longer feeding periods, the Moisture Control mix can be a good alternative, though it is marketed primarily for indoor use.

Is a specialized cactus and succulent mix worth the extra cost?

Cactus, Palm & Citrus Potting Mix has a fast‑draining formula that prevents waterlogged roots, which is crucial for succulents and palms. It also contains added plant food to support growth in low‑nutrient conditions. If you grow many drought‑tolerant plants, the improved drainage can lead to healthier specimens, making the premium price justified.

How important is the bag size when buying potting mix for my garden projects?

Bag size determines how many containers you can fill and influences cost per quart. A 12‑quart (value) bag like Back to the Roots is convenient for multiple small pots, while 16‑quart bags from Miracle‑Gro fill larger 12‑inch containers and often provide a better price per volume. Consider the number of plants you have and the space you need to avoid waste.

Do any of these mixes help reduce fungus gnats?

Both Miracle‑Gro Houseplant and Indoor Potting Mixes are formulated to be less prone to gnats by avoiding compost or bark, which are common breeding grounds. Back to the Roots also minimizes gnat issues thanks to its peat‑free, bark‑free composition. Using a mix with these attributes can reduce the need for chemical controls.

What added benefits do organic mixes provide over conventional ones?

Organic mixes like Back to the Roots and Miracle‑Gro Organic Indoor/Outdoor blends use natural fertilizers and sustainably sourced peat, which improve soil health over time. They often contain mycorrhizae or other beneficial microbes that enhance root development and nutrient uptake. Additionally, they have a lower environmental impact and are safer for pets and children.

Can I use the same potting mix for seed starting and mature plants?

Seed starting mixes, such as Miracle‑Gro Seed Starting Potting Mix, are formulated for rapid root development and are usually finer in texture. While they can support young seedlings, mature plants often benefit from mixes with added nutrients and better structure, like the Moisture Control or Organic Outdoor blends. Switching to a richer mix as plants grow will promote stronger, healthier development.

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