Which Potting Soil Is Best?

In this episode of SoiLab, we test different potting soils found at big box stores! We planted and monitored the growth of lettuce, peas, and tomatoes, along with soil testing, to see which mix tested best and produced the healthiest and most robust plants. Watch to discover the surprising results and get expert tips on choosing the best soil for your garden!

[@verbalkint98]

Hello there, just found this channel a couple of weeks ago. Tests backed by science...perfect!

[@mysticshadow425]

Thank you for this I always wonder which one to pick

[@swampysanta5445]

i love videos like this.

[@danmartin3183]

Your channel is my go to channel for soil education. That said, I have a question about the Miracle Gro products. I've noticed that depending on which state you live in, the ingredients vary greatly. Will my results vary? (I'm in California.)

[@SoiLab]

We’re glad you’re enjoying the channel and content; we love helping educate! Bagged soils may vary in different states for many reasons ranging from manufacturing and storage to legislation, so your results may vary. That being said, we have seen similar trends with these same brands in previous studies. If you are using the soil to “top off” a garden bed and incorporating with existing soil, this can certainly change the composition and nutrient levels within the entire rooting profile vs using the mix as a stand-alone soil. This is why we always recommend a soil test before planting so that you can amend your soil with the products that your fertilizer philosophy aligns with to grow the healthiest plants.

[@danmartin3183]

@@SoiLab If I use the product, it will be as a winter mulch. I've "embraced" no-till, biochar and alfalfa pellets. Naturally I should have my soil tested, but right now I use the earthworm activity and tomato plant explosion for feedback. (All is well.)

[@richardsmith1161]

The regular Miracle grow has added synthetic Nitrogen, kinda cheating.

[@Taydrum]

It's not cheating, it's just not an organic form

[@keyphabenyisrael3219]

For years youtubers have been detailing their abysmal results using Kellogg, not realizing that the fertilizer is seriously lacking in those OMRI listed products. I wouldn't pay more than $3 per bag for any of them.

[@TerpyTen]

Where's the Fox Farm? Where's the Espoma? Kellogg is the absolute WORST and miracle grow is okay for house plants. Food grown in it tastes weird.