Potting Soil vs. Potting Mix: Which to Use Where

Potting mix is a soilless blend of peat moss, pine bark fines, perlite, and sometimes sand/fertilizer—ideal for containers indoors and out. Potting soil typically contains some native soil plus composted wood or peat, making it heavier; best mixed into garden beds for outdoor flowers. Quality varies by brand—look for high peat, perlite, and bark content. You get what you pay for: cheap mixes break down fast, compacting and drowning roots. Invest in a premium mix for containers.