Comparison: Best Sungro Black Gold Potting Mix (Updated | Nov 11th)
But with so many varieties on the shelf, how do you know which one’s right for your green babies? In this honest, down-to-earth comparison, we’ll break down the top contenders, weighing ingredients, performance, and value so you can skip the guesswork and give your plants the powerhouse start they deserve.
- Best for houseplant all-purpose: SunGro Black Gold All Purpose Potting Soil Fertilizer Mix for House Plants
- Best for certified organic blend: SUNGRO HORTICULTURE Black Gold 1302040 16-Quart All Organic Potting Soil
- Best for seedling starter mix: Black Gold Seedling Mix
- Best for african violet formula: Sun Gro Horticulture Black Gold African Violet Mix
- Best for seed & cutting germinator: Sun Gro Black Gold Seeds or Cutting Seedling Germination Mix
- Best for eco-friendly potting: Natural & Organic Potting Mix
- Best for cactus succulent mix: Sun GRO Horticulture 1410602.Q08P Black Gold Cactus Mix (8 qt) (2 Pack)
Product Comparison: Best Sungro Black Gold Potting Mix
SunGro Black Gold All Purpose Potting Soil Fertilizer Mix for House Plants, Vegetables, Herbs and More, 16 Quart Bag (4 Pack)
SUNGRO HORTICULTURE Black Gold 1302040 16-Quart All Organic Potting Soil
- Ideal for all container-grown flowers, herbs and vegetables
- Enriched with earthworm castings, perlite, pumice and organic fertilizer
- OMRI listed organic
- 16 quart bag
- Packaging may vary
- Listed by the organic materials review institute for the production of organic food and fiber
- Rich, loamy mix is one of the best for all gardening applications
- Perlite and pumice are added to ensure optimum pore and air space for sturdy growth
- Use in hanging baskets, patio containers, herb gardens, vegetable plantings, and anywhere you would like to use an organic soil
- Regionally formulated, western region only , Packaging may vary
Black Gold Seedling Mix, 8 quart
- Black Gold Seedling Mix 8qt Listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute for the production of organic food and fiber
- This mix combines double screened Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss and other fine ingredients to give seedlings the aeration and moisture retention they need for strong development
- This product is made in United States
- Listed by the organic materials review institute for the production of organic food and fiber
- Combines double screened Canadian sphagnum peat moss and other fine ingredients to give seedlings the aeration and moisture retention they need for strong development
- Contains Canadian sphagnum peat moss, perlite, dolomite lime, and an organic wetting agent
- Use for germinating seeds in flats, pots, and plug trays
- 8-Quart
Sun Gro Horticulture Black Gold African Violet Mix
- The blend consists of Sphagnum Peat Moss, perlite, volcanic pumice and earthworm castings with dolomite lime added as a soil pH adjuster
- This product is made in United States
- Package Weight: 1.724 kilograms
- Package Dimensions: 8.89 L x 37.592 H x 24.13 W (centimeters)
Sun Gro Black Gold Seeds or Cutting Seedling Germination Mix,16 Quart (4 Pack)
Sun GRO Horticulture 1410602.Q08P Black Gold Cactus Mix (8 qt) (2 Pack)
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
Which SunGro Black Gold mix is best for general houseplants?
The All Purpose Potting Soil Fertilizer Mix (B08H8T9N4K) is formulated for a wide range of indoor plants, offering balanced nutrients and moisture retention. It combines peat, perlite, and earthworm castings, making it a versatile choice for foliage, flowering, and foliage plants. If you want a single mix for most houseplants, this is the most convenient option.
How does the 16‑quart All Organic Potting Soil differ from the All Purpose mix?
The 16‑quart All Organic Potting Soil (B004NSBN8S) is certified OMRI‑listed, meaning it meets strict organic standards, while the All Purpose mix is not specifically labeled organic. It also emphasizes a higher proportion of perlite and pumice for improved aeration, which can benefit root health in larger containers. Choose the organic version if you prioritize certified organic growing media.
What should I consider when selecting a seedling mix versus a regular potting mix?
Seedling mixes, like the Black Gold Seedling Mix (B004NSBNAQ), use double‑screened peat and fine ingredients to provide superior aeration and moisture control for delicate young roots. Regular potting mixes contain more fertilizer and are geared toward established plants that need ongoing nutrient support. If you are starting seeds or propagating cuttings, the seedling mix will give the best early growth environment.
Is the African Violet Mix suitable for other plant types?
The African Violet Mix (B00D8NTVVK) is specially blended with dolomite lime to maintain a slightly acidic pH ideal for African violets, but its peat‑perlite‑pumice base works well for other small, moisture‑sensitive plants. However, the added lime may raise the pH slightly, which could be less optimal for acid‑loving plants like orchids. Use it for violets and similar foliage, or test pH before applying to other species.
What are the advantages of the 4‑pack 16‑quart Seedling/Cutting Mix?
The 4‑pack (B08H8SMVTY) provides a larger total volume at a lower per‑quart cost, making it economical for growers who need a lot of mix for seedlings or cuttings. It is formulated to support rapid root development with a balanced blend of peat, perlite, and nutrients. This bulk option is ideal for hobbyists who propagate frequently or small commercial growers.
How does the Cactus Mix compare to the All Purpose mix for succulents?
The Cactus Mix (B07DNV39XR) contains a higher proportion of coarse sand and perlite, creating excellent drainage that succulents and cacti require. In contrast, the All Purpose mix retains more moisture, which can lead to root rot in drought‑tolerant plants if over‑watered. For desert‑type plants, the cactus-specific blend is the safer choice.
Is there a noticeable price‑to‑value difference among these SunGro mixes?
While exact pricing varies, larger bulk bags like the 16‑quart All Organic mix typically offer better value per quart compared to smaller 8‑quart specialty mixes. However, specialty mixes such as the African Violet or Cactus blends provide targeted formulations that can reduce the need for additional amendments, potentially saving money in the long run. Consider both the intended plant type and the total volume you need when evaluating cost efficiency.