Back to the Roots 6qt Organic Potting Mix All Purpose: OMRI Certified, for Patio & Garden
$6.99 when purchased online
Target Online store #3991
About this item
Highlights
- Organic and peat-free potting mix for a home garden
- Potting soil for indoor plants and outdoor plants
- Contains nutrient-rich fertilizer and beneficial Mycorrhizae
- Includes pH-balancing dolomitic limestone
- Great for herbs, veggies, fruits, and flowers
- Perfect for practicing gardening at home
- #GrowOneGiveOne - Share a pic, and we'll donate a kit to a classroom of your choice!
- Guaranteed to Grow Promise
Description
Back to the Roots Organic All-Purpose Potting Mix is a great soil for herbs, veggies, fruits, and flowers in pots, in the ground, or in a raised bed or container! This soil blend contains natural, organic, and nutritious fertilizer as well as moisture-retaining coconut coir and beneficial mycorrhizae for enhanced root growth. Our All-Purpose Potting Mix is peat-free, meaning that instead of imported peat, the base of our soils is made from upcycled plant matter and wood fines. The Back to the Roots Organic All-Purpose Potting Mix Specialty Blend is a great addition to your at-home gardening supplies!
Weight: 3.5 Pounds
Used For: Flowers, House Plants
Capacity (Volume): 6 Quart
Features: Organic, Peat-Free
Sustainability Claims: Renewable Resource, Contains Recycled Content, Post-Consumer Recycled Material
Industry or Government Certifications: OMRI Certified
Maximum Coverage Area: .41 Square Feet
TCIN: 82834900
UPC: 810667034092
Item Number (DPCI): 084-16-8973
Origin: Made in the USA
If the item details above aren’t accurate or complete, we want to know about it.
Shipping details
Estimated ship dimensions: 5.07 inches length x 11.48 inches width x 13.54 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 6.87 pounds
Return details
This item can be returned to any Target store or Target.com.
This item must be returned within 90 days of the date it was purchased in store, shipped, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or made ready for pickup.
See the return policy for complete information.
Q: What exactly are "post-consumer recycled material" and what kind of "recycled content" are you referring to? Are these materials organic pre-processing?
submitted by - 29 days ago
A: The recycled materials come from things like used paper or cardboard that have been reused. They help reduce waste and are safe to use. The potting mix is still fully certified organic for your garden!
submitted byBack to the Roots, Inc. - 28 days agoBrand expert
Q: Does it cause gnats?
submitted by Ana - 2 months ago
A: Hi Ana! Organic potting mixes can sometimes attract or harbor fungus gnats, especially if they stay too moist for too long. Fungus gnats are drawn to damp, organic-rich environments where they can lay their eggs. It's not that the potting mix causes gnats directly — rather, it provides the kind of conditions (moisture + organic material) that gnats like if the mix is kept wet. To prevent gnats, it's important to let the top layer of the soil dry out between waterings, use good drainage, and consider adding a top dressing like sand or diatomaceous earth, which makes it harder for gnats to breed. Please feel free to reach out to contact@backtotheroots.com with questions or concerns. Our team is always happy to help!
submitted byBack to the Roots, Inc. - 2 months agoBrand expert
Q: Is this safe for pets, to grow grass for cats and dogs?
submitted by R - 2 months ago
A: Hi R! Yes, our Organic All-Purpose Potting Mix is safe for growing wheatgrass for pets like cats and dogs. We do recommend supervising your pets around the planter—especially if they tend to dig or eat soil. For added peace of mind, consider using a planter with a cover or mesh that lets the grass grow through while keeping the soil protected. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to us at contact@backtotheroots.com—we're always happy to help!
submitted byBack to the Roots, Inc. - 2 months agoBrand expert
Q: Does this contain any peanut, tree nut, or wheat products?
submitted by ogirlh - 3 months ago
A: Hello! Our soils are made from processed forest products, coir, limestone, fertilizer, mycorrhizae, and moisture-balancing yucca. Depending on the soil bag, the organic fertilizers could have ingredients derived from milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, or soy. Please read through each soil bag's exact ingredients in case you have any allergies to any of these ingredients. If very severe, we'd recommend being careful using our soils & talking to a doctor first. Please feel free to send us an email to contact@backtotheroots.com with questions or concerns. We're here to help!
submitted byBack to the Roots, Inc. - 3 months agoBrand expert
Q: Does this contain pesticides?
submitted by Mic - 10 months ago
A: Hi Mic! We sell an organic, living soil that is not made with synthetic ingredients and has not been fumigated/sprayed with highly toxic chemicals or pesticides. Please reach out to contact@backtotheroots.com with further questions or concerns!
submitted byBack to the Roots, Inc. - 10 months agoBrand expert
Q: I can not read clearly or it does not say. I want to know how acidic is the soil . Is it between ph 5 and 6 ? Thanks for answering.
submitted by ilia - 10 months ago
A: Hi Ilia! Our All-Purpose Potting Mix is more alkaline. Please reach out to contact@backtotheroots.com with further questions or concerns.
submitted byBack to the Roots, Inc. - 10 months agoBrand expert
Q: how much soil do i need for 24"x8" planter
submitted by JBM - 1 year ago
A: Hi JBM! It'll depend on the shape and depth of the planter, but you can find more information here, https://www.gardeners.com/how-to/soil-calculator/7558.html.
submitted byBack to the Roots, Inc. - 1 year agoBrand expert
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Guests are saying
This organic potting mix is a favorite among guests for its versatility and effectiveness in promoting healthy plant growth. Many appreciate its rich texture, moisture retention, and nutrient-rich composition, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor gardening. While some guests noted issues with pests and drainage, the overall consensus is that this mix supports vibrant plant life and is easy to work with, making it a great choice for gardening enthusiasts.
Summary created by AI from text of reviews reflecting recent feedback provided across different star ratings (includes incentivized reviews)
4.5 out of 5 stars with 5129 reviews
quality: 1.98 out of 5
value: 2.05 out of 5
19% would recommend
253 recommendations
DO NOT BUY
1 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
madiii - 12 days ago, Verified purchaser
HORRIBLE!! infested our whole apartment with gnats!!
1 reply from Back to the Roots, Inc. team - 11 days ago
Hi Madi! We're so sorry to hear about your experience — that’s definitely not what we want for our customers. Fungus gnats can be common with all soils, as they’re attracted to decaying organic matter and thrive in moist, warm environments. Please send a photo of the front and back of the soil bag to contact@backtotheroots.com. We'd love the opportunity to make this right and help you grow with us! 🌱
Believe the reviews!
1 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
Momo - 19 days ago, Verified purchaser
I should’ve trusted my gut when I was in the store and was being swarmed by gnats, but I was a new gardener and desperately in need of soil. 1) believe the other reviews. This is not really soil but ground up mulch. 2) gnats everywhere! And now I am so worried about my plants!
1 reply from Back to the Roots, Inc. team - 19 days ago
Hi Momo! Thank you for sharing your experience, and we're truly sorry to hear about the issues you've encountered. As fellow gardeners, we know how frustrating pests like gnats can be, especially when you're just starting out. Fungus gnats are a common challenge in indoor gardening and can sometimes be attracted to the moisture in soil or compost-based mixes — especially when conditions are warm and humid. The good news is that they’re manageable, and we’re here to help you get things back on track! We’d love to take a closer look and support you with both solutions and a replacement if needed. When you have a moment, please email us at contact@backtotheroots.com with photos of the front and back of the bag you purchased — that will help us identify the batch and provide the best next steps. You’re not alone on this journey — we’ve got your back, and we’ll help your garden thrive 🌱
Brought gnats into my home
1 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
RiDaPe - 22 days ago
My home is infested with fungus gnats now
1 reply from Back to the Roots, Inc. team - 22 days ago
Hello! We're so sorry to hear about your experience — that sounds incredibly frustrating, and we absolutely understand your concern. Fungus gnats can be an unfortunate side effect when growing indoors, especially in moist environments, and we want to help make it right. Please reach out to our team directly at contact@backtotheroots.com so we can learn more about your situation and provide the best possible support. We truly value your feedback and are here to help every step of the way. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to make this right.
Worked first 2 years. Horrible last year (2024)
2 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
Bri - 28 days ago
Last year was the first year it was pretty bad. A lot of mulch and gnats. NONE of my green beans, peppers, tomatoes or cucumbers grew. They would sprout and die over and over. Also a lot of mushroom caps. The soil looked different compared to previous years (2022 & 2023) . I trusted it would be okay but I should have listened to my green thumb.
1 reply from Back to the Roots, Inc. team - 26 days ago
Hi Bri! We're really sorry to hear about your experience with the soil this past season — that’s definitely not what we want for your garden. We appreciate you sharing these details and want to help make it right. To better understand what happened and help troubleshoot, could you please reach out to us at contact@backtotheroots.com? If possible, include photos of the soil and any affected plants, along with any additional details about your growing conditions. Our team is ready to look into this and support you in getting your garden back on track. Thanks again for your feedback — we truly value your green thumb and are here to help!
Do Not Buy from this company
1 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
Suzi - 1 month ago
This is not soil. It is full of mold, gnats, and rust. Such a disappointment. Unethical business for sure.
1 reply from Back to the Roots, Inc. team - 1 month ago
Hi Suzi! We're very sorry to hear about your experience and truly appreciate you bringing this to our attention. This is not the standard we strive for, and we want to make things right. Could you please send photos of the soil to contact@backtotheroots.com so our team can better understand what happened and assist you directly? We’re here to help and ensure you have a positive experience.
This is not soil!
1 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
Tricia356 - 2 months ago
It's mulch! Good grief what a waste of money. Thought I was buying potting soil.
1 reply from Back to the Roots, Inc. team - 1 month ago
Hi Tricia356! Thank you for your feedback, and we’re sorry to hear you were disappointed. Our Organic Potting Mix does contain larger pieces of organic material by design—these help improve drainage, prevent soil compaction, and break down over time to enrich the mix naturally. That said, we definitely want to ensure you received the quality you expected. If you’d be willing, please email us at contact@backtotheroots.com with photos of the soil you received so our team can take a closer look and assist you further. We’re here to help make things right!
Mushroom growth after a week
2 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
Sarah - 2 months ago, Verified purchaser
Growing tomatoes and basil indoors in pots, noticed all three pots have these mica caps. Apparently it's not bad for plants but not a huge fan of this at all. Would probably not purchase again.
1 reply from Back to the Roots, Inc. team - 2 months ago
Hi Sarah! Thanks for taking the time to share your experience. We totally understand your concern with the mica caps—it’s not uncommon in some soil blends, but we’d love to take a closer look to make sure everything is as it should be. Would you mind sending us a few photos to contact@backtotheroots.com? Our team would be happy to take a closer look and help however we can. We always want to make sure you're having the best possible experience growing with us. Looking forward to hearing from you! 🌿
Gnats and mold
2 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
Odoylerules - 2 months ago, Verified purchaser
Like some others, mine was full of gnats and mold became obvious after only a few days. Wouldn’t recommend
1 reply from Back to the Roots, Inc. team - 2 months ago
Hello! Thank you for your feedback, and we're sorry to hear about your experience. That’s definitely not the quality we aim to provide, and we understand how frustrating it is to deal with mold and gnats in your soil. To help us investigate this further and prevent it from happening again, would you mind sending us a few photos of the mold you observed? That will help our quality team take a closer look and determine next steps. You can email them to us at contact@backtotheroots.com. We truly appreciate you bringing this to our attention and would love the opportunity to make it right.
Rich-looking soil but gnats
3 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
MiaSRN - 2 months ago, Verified purchaser
I liked that the soil is organic and a rich black color. However, as soon as I opened the bag, dozens of gnats flew out. I ended up discarding the entire bag because I could not risk gnats on my screened-in lanai or inside my home. Had such hope. I can or cannot recommend it for planting as I never used it. But I doubt I would purchase again based on the number of gnats.
1 reply from Back to the Roots, Inc. team - 1 month ago
Hi MiaSRN! Thank you for your honest feedback—we're really sorry to hear about the gnats. That’s definitely not the experience we want you to have, and we completely understand your frustration. We'd love the chance to make this right and learn more about what happened. Please reach out to us at contact@backtotheroots.com so our team can help. Your satisfaction means a lot to us, and we’re here to support you.
Potting soil
5 out of 5 stars
gabrielleb166_5064 - 3 months ago
originally posted on influenster.com
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I always love when spring is here and I can finally start planting again. This came in right in time. I planted some of my herbs and flowers in it. So far they are blooming/growing nicely.
Great value
5 out of 5 stars
tinah186_6155 - 3 months ago
originally posted on influenster.com
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Let's start with how easy the bag is to open. This potting does not have an overwhelming scent, making it easy-to-use. So far, my plants are doing great. This soil is a great value.
Perfect size bag to carry around without any hassl
5 out of 5 stars
rebekahe13_5187 - 3 months ago
originally posted on influenster.com
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This potting mix is great for my garden. It came right to my door step in the perfect sized bag so I could carry it around with out any hassle. It also doesn’t smell like your typical potting mix, it’s better!!
Depends on what youre growing.
3 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
Jaimie - 3 months ago, Verified purchaser
It depends on what you’re growing, if you’re growing tomatoes or any kind of peppers from seedling, they will not thrive or grow. My tomatoes, jalapeños, and bell peppers have all stalled. It’s been over a month and they have no true leaves. However, for my zucchini, yellow squash, watermelon and cantaloupe, they’re growing just fine. Not sure what it is. But just be careful about what you’re growing.
1 reply from Back to the Roots, Inc. team - 3 months ago
Hi Jaimie! We're sorry to hear your plants are not thriving; please send a photo of your plants to contact@backtotheroots.com. We'd love to have a look and help you troubleshoot and grow!
Rich, dark soil!
5 out of 5 stars
michelleb580_9573 - 3 months ago
originally posted on influenster.com
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This Back to the Roots Organic potting Mix is rich and dark. I plan to use some to start seedlings, but I tested it by adding some to my snake plant. Snakey is small, and has a mix of succulent and regular soils. This will add some additional nutrients to snakey’s life and help with growth. Great product! Recommend!!
Good black dirt
5 out of 5 stars
mandyh78_5743 - 3 months ago
originally posted on influenster.com
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This is really good for starting seeds off! It retains water well. If you’re looking for a soil to at promotes good drainage this is not it. I started seeds in here less than a week ago and they are already sprouting.
Soil Season
4 out of 5 stars
mandih19_8622 - 3 months ago
originally posted on influenster.com
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This worked pretty good for repotting plants with the upcoming weather change. I’m not really sure what else to say, it’s soil made with worms..
A nutrient-rich potting mix with worm castings and
5 out of 5 stars
phucl2_766 - 3 months ago
originally posted on influenster.com
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] The "Best" Potting Mix is a high-quality blend that works great for both indoor and outdoor plants. It provides excellent moisture retention and aeration, helping plants thrive. The added worm castings enrich the soil with nutrients, while mycorrhizae promote strong root growth. It’s easy to use and keeps plants healthy with minimal effort. Overall, this mix is a fantastic choice for gardeners looking to give their plants the best start.
Spring refresh key product
5 out of 5 stars
priyal7_2524 - 3 months ago
originally posted on influenster.com
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This top soil is great. It came just in the nick of time for my spring time garden reset. I can already see new growth in some of my plants. The packaging is heavy duty and doesn’t have a strong dirt odor either.
Half a bag
3 out of 5 stars
briab205_7318 - 4 months ago
originally posted on influenster.com
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This Back to the Roots Best potting mix is extremely soft and moist. It holds the water great and keeps my plants flourishing. It is very eco-friendly and smells natural. The only thing I did not like is it is only half a bag so it doesn't seem you are getting your moneys worth.
Ready for spring planting
4 out of 5 stars
kelwol_8558 - 4 months ago
originally posted on influenster.com
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] After the winter we’ve had, I’ve been itching to get my gardening gloves on and begin planting for spring. I thought that I would love how this soil is versatile for both indoor and outdoor plants (because I often need it for both), but after opening the bag and seeing a couple of fungus gnats fly out, I’m reserving this exclusively for my outdoor garden. I’m going to choose to overlook the gnats though, because of how dark and rich this soil looks, smells, and feels. I noticed some other reviews state that the composition of this mix is very woody with lots of twigs, but I’m happy to report that is not the case with my bag, which seems like just high quality soil. And while it will take some time to see how my plants like this particular brand, I am happy that it’s organic, especially for my herbs.