How to Choose Potting Soil

For SEED-STARTING

Organic Seed Starting Mix

Bio-Blended Compost stimulates seed germination. So rich in nutrients, there's no need to fertilize seedlings until you transplant them!
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Seed Starting Mix

SuperRoot Booster promotes vigorous, healthy growth. Offers the perfect balance of drainage and wicking action to keep roots moist.
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What's so special about our soils? Learn how we test our potting soil blends to ensure great results.

For TRANSPLANTING SEEDLINGS

Transplant Mix

When it's time to pot up seedlings into larger containers, this mix helps them make a smooth transition. A blend of peat and moisture-retaining coir reduces drought stress and helps plants stay hydrated. SuperRoot Booster promotes vigorous, healthy growth so plants will thrive after transplanting.
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For POTS and PLANTERS

Organic Potting Mix

With Bio-Blended Compost to support healthy plant growth, abundant flowering and the tastiest fruits and vegetables. Made in USA.
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Potting Mix

A blend of peat, and moisture-retaining coir helps plants stay hydrated. SuperRoot Booster promotes vigorous, healthy growth.
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Don't Forget Fertilizer: Start by mixing granular fertilizer into the soil at planting time; follow up with regular feeding.

For SELF-WATERING PLANTERS

Organic Self-Watering Potting Mix

Optimal moisture control keeps plants properly hydrated, with SuperRoot Booster to promote vigorous, healthy growth.
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Self-Watering Potting Mix

Ideal for use in any type of self-watering planter, from hanging baskets to large pots. SuperRoot Booster promotes healthy growth.
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Don't Forget Fertilizer: Start by mixing granular fertilizer into the soil at planting time; follow up with regular feeding.

Considerations for Choosing Organic or Traditional Potting Mixes

• Ingredients: Organic potting mixes use natural and organic materials, and are often manure based while traditional potting mixes contain a higher composition of synthetic nutrient sources.
• Environmental Considerations: Organic soil tends to be more sustainable, whereas traditional soil can have a larger environmental impact.
• Nutrient Release: Organic potting soil offers slower, long-term nutrient release as it decomposes, while traditional potting soil provides a quicker release.

In summary, the choice between organic and traditional potting soil depends on your gardening preferences, the plants you’re growing, and how important sustainability and eco-friendly practices are to you.

Potting Soil FAQs

1. What is the best potting soil for indoor plants?

When choosing the best potting soil for indoor plants, look for a lightweight, well-draining mix that retains moisture. Opt for potting soil containing a blend of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark. These ingredients provide excellent aeration and help prevent root rot. Additionally, consider soil with added nutrients, especially for plants like orchids, succulents, and ferns. Always choose a soil mix suited to the specific needs of your indoor plants for optimal growth.

2. How do I choose the right potting soil for vegetables?

For growing vegetables, select a potting soil that is rich in organic matter and provides excellent drainage. A good vegetable soil mix includes compost, peat moss, and vermiculite to retain moisture while ensuring proper root aeration. It's also beneficial to choose soil with added nutrients such as balanced fertilizers to support vigorous vegetable growth. Ensure the soil pH matches the preferences of your specific crops (typically between 6.0 and 7.0 for most vegetables).

3. Can I use garden soil as potting soil?

It’s not recommended to use garden soil as potting soil. Garden soil tends to be heavy, which can lead to poor drainage and compaction in containers. It may also carry pests, diseases, and weed seeds that can harm your plants. Instead, choose a specialized potting mix designed for container use, as it is lightweight, sterile, and optimized for root health, promoting healthy plant growth in pots and containers.

4. What is the difference between potting soil and potting mix?

Potting soil and potting mix are often used interchangeably, but they have key differences. Potting soil is typically a natural soil-based product, while potting mix is a lighter, soil-less blend made with ingredients like peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. Potting mix is generally preferred for container gardening because it provides better drainage and aeration, which is vital for healthy root systems. Choose a potting mix that suits your plant's specific needs for optimal results.

Relevant Sources

https://extension.unh.edu/blog/2020/01/what-best-soil-potted-plants 

https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/2023/06/horticulture-tips-for-choosing-potting-soil.html

https://prowellness.childrens.pennstatehealth.org/potting-soil-101-how-to-select-soil-for-containers-plants-and-raised-garden-beds/ 

https://www.foodgardenlife.com/learn/best-potting-soil 

https://shuncy.com/article/which-soil-is-best-for-growing-plants-in-pots 

https://www.southernliving.com/potting-mix-vs-potting-soil-8771339