Comparison: Best Soil For Container Plants (Updated | Nov 11th)
Not all potting mixes are created equal, and choosing the **best soil for container plants** can make all the difference between lush, vibrant growth and a sad, droopy mess. In this guide, we’ll break down the top soil options, compare their pros and cons, and help you pick the perfect blend to keep your potted greens happy and healthy all season long.
- Best for moisture control: Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix
- Best for six-month feed: Miracle-Gro Potting Mix
- Best for organic outdoor: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for indoor perlite blend: Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix: Fertilized
- Best for organic indoor: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for seed starting: Miracle-Gro Seed Starting Potting Mix
- Best for all-purpose premium: FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil
- Best for large outdoor pack: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for organic indoor duo: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for gnat-resistant mix: Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix
Product Comparison: Best Soil For Container Plants
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)
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
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 Seed Starting Potting Mix, 8 Quarts (Pack of 2), For Use in Containers
- 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
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
Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix, for Outdoor Container Plants, Contains Quick-Release Natural Fertilizer, OMRI Listed, 25 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 25 qt. bag of Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix fills three 10-inch containers (amount 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, 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 Indoor Potting Mix, Blended for a Variety of Houseplants, Feeds for up to 6 Months, 16 qt., 2-Pack
- 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)
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 consider when choosing a potting mix for container plants?
Look at the plant type (indoor vs. outdoor), water retention needs, and whether you want added fertilizer. Some mixes, like Miracle-Gro Moisture Control, include AquaCoir for extra moisture management, while organic options provide natural nutrients. Also check the bag size to match the volume of your containers.
Which mix is best for indoor houseplants that are prone to fungus gnats?
Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix and the Indoor Potting Mix are formulated to be less prone to gnats, using perlite and a peat‑coir blend that discourages pest habitats. The Indoor mix also includes a quick‑start natural fertilizer for healthier foliage. Both are good choices for common houseplants like pothos and monstera.
How do the standard Miracle-Gro Potting Mix and the Moisture Control version differ?
Both feed plants for up to six months, but Moisture Control adds an AquaCoir formula that absorbs up to 33% more water and helps prevent over‑ or under‑watering. The regular mix is a straightforward, all‑purpose blend without the extra moisture‑locking technology. Moisture Control comes in two 8‑qt bags, while the standard version offers two 16‑qt bags.
Is an organic potting mix worth the extra cost for outdoor containers?
Organic mixes like Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix provide a quick‑release natural fertilizer and use responsibly sourced peat, which appeals to eco‑conscious gardeners. They feed plants for about two months, slightly less than the six‑month feed of the synthetic mixes. If you value organic ingredients and sustainable sourcing, the higher price can be justified.
Can I use the same potting mix for both seedlings and mature plants?
Seed starting mixes, such as Miracle-Gro Seed Starting Potting Mix, are lightweight and promote fast root development, making them ideal for seedlings and cuttings. For mature plants, a richer blend like FoxFarm Ocean Forest or the standard Miracle‑Gro mixes provides more nutrients and structure. Switching to a heavier mix as plants grow supports stronger root systems.
What are the advantages of FoxFarm Ocean Forest over Miracle‑Gro products?
FoxFarm Ocean Forest combines aged forest products, earthworm castings, bat guano, and fish emulsion for a highly organic nutrient profile and excellent moisture retention. It is pH‑adjusted and suitable for a wide range of plants, both indoor and outdoor. Miracle‑Gro mixes tend to focus on synthetic fertilizers and moisture control, offering faster feeding but less organic content.
How much soil do I need for a standard 12‑inch container?
A 12‑inch pot typically requires about 2 to 2.5 quarts of potting mix, depending on the plant’s root ball size. Most 16‑qt bags of Miracle‑Gro Indoor, Outdoor, or Standard mixes are advertised to fill one 12‑inch container, while the 8‑qt bags of Moisture Control or Seed Starting mix fill two smaller 8‑inch pots. Always leave room for drainage and avoid over‑packing.
Which potting mix offers the best value for large container gardens?
For large outdoor containers, the 25‑qt bag of Miracle‑Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix provides coverage for three 10‑inch pots and includes a natural fertilizer, delivering good bulk pricing. FoxFarm Ocean Forest, though more expensive per bag, offers a premium organic blend that can reduce the need for additional fertilizers. Consider the number of containers and desired nutrient profile when evaluating cost per cubic foot.