Garden Soil vs. Potting Soil vs. Potting Mix

Is there really a difference and does it matter? Yes and yes.

Every type does have a purpose - it's not just Miracle Grow trying to make money. Using products that contain a lot of peat can be tricky. Peat can dry out quickly and can almost be impossible to re-wet. Make sure it is 'wetted' before you plant seeds or use for transplanting. Peat is an excellent growing medium when it holds and doesn't repel water.

Potting or Seed Starting Mix

• used for seed starting and often for 6 packs
• it is 'soiless'
• largely comprised of bark, peat, vermiculite, perlite
• is very free draining
• can be impervious to water if allowed to get to dry
• usually sterile, (unsterile mixes can quickly lead to plant issues) 
• usually has some starter fertilizer in it

Potting Soil

• heavier blend than the 'mix'
• usually contains some garden soil
• suitable to mix with bagged garden soil for container plants
• contains more minerals
• I mix 50-50 with the 'mix' when potting to 6 packs or small pots
• usually contains fetilizer 'prills' which dissolve over time

Bagged Garden Soil

• suitable for containers for the season
• if real heavy, mix with a lighter product
• sometimes sterile

Garden Soil

• soil from your garden - should stay there, in the garden
• soil in place has an extensive drainage system
• disturbing the sytem of air spaces compacts the soil
• usually, it will be like concrete in a few weeks
• can harbor insect eggs and diseases

This garden soil thing is even a problem for raised beds. Mixing and adding amendments helps for a while but it will be an annual event to keep the beds loose. Adding several inches of compost every year will help. Always make sure your containers are free draining. If really dry, set in a bucket of water or wheelbarrow of water to soak, but no more than a couple of hours. If soil has really pulled away from the edges and runs right through when watering, you should gently try to work in some heavier soil, or re-pot. Last year I addressed growing in straight compost - (not recommended) In search box top left type in 'compost,' it will be about the 3rd entry down.