If you haven’t started seedlings yet for your spring & summer crops, it’s time to get started. First thing: which potting mix should you choose?

Although Miracle-Gro tends to dominate Home Depot & conventional ‘home’ stores, you may be supporting a scary brand. Miracle-gro has fertilizers and synthetic chemicals, criticized for not improving soil over the long term but instead leaching unnatural chemicals into streams and ponds.

Plus, Miracle-Gro’s parent company (Scotts) is in bed with Monsanto, the ag-giant responsible for GMOs and much of the support to have California’s Prop 37 vetoed. (Monsanto has a lot of controversy, so make sure to read up on their practices if you are not so familiar…)

So what are better alternatives to Miracle-Gro & conventional potting soils?

1. Organic Mechanics is local in PA, locally sourced & earth friendly. They’re also in a lot of Philly shops & sold often at Whole Foods (and was at this past week’s Philly Farm & Food fest!).
2. Bennett Compost sells a 5 gallon bucket for $10 and is available in Philly hot spots like Essene, Green Aisle Grocery, Greenable & Urban Jungle.
3. DIY! If you have your own compost bin, the problem is solved.
4. Happy Frog is a favorite of Treehugger.

Readers, what’s your potting soil of choice?

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher