Is Soil Better for Plant Growth Than Potting Soil?

Plants in containers grow best in a potting mix.

Potting Mix for Container Gardening

Potting mix allows proper drainage and aeration in containers, according to the University of Illinois Extension. Mixes labeled as compost or those containing sedge peat may result in poor plant growth, however, as demonstrated in a two-year research project by Carl Wilson, extension horticulturist at Colorado State University.

Advantages of Garden Soil

Garden soil works well for growing plants in the ground, though it may need compost added to it to achieve high quality. Use garden soil in containers only if it is mixed with equal parts peat moss and perlite. Some garden soil contains insects, diseases or weeds while potting mixes do not, according to the University of Illinois Extension.

Bottom Line

Use potting mix or amended garden soil for container gardening, as suggested by the Washington State University King County Extension. Garden soil remains appropriate for growing things in the ground, but may require the addition of compost to improve soil quality.

References

• Colorado State University Extension: Consumers Beware Potting Mix Choices
• Washington State University King County Extension: Container Vegetable Gardens
• University of Illinois Extension: Using Soil and Soil Mixes

Resources

• University of Vermont Extension: Organic Potting Mixes