Potting Soil vs. Potting Mix

[sonofabishh]

Or is there even a difference?
The reason why I ask is I am trying out this thing called the Earth Box self watering pot that specifiys NOT to use Potting Soil as it doesnt hold the water the same way.
I guess what I need to know is the age ol' question.....which kind of Potting Mix is best for a small indoor grow op. of this kind.....or any kind really.
Sorry, i know this is somewhat of a weird question...
any advice would help thanks

sonofabishh Reviewed by sonofabishh on 11-26-2008. Potting Soil vs. Potting Mix Or is there even a difference? The reason why I ask is I am trying out this thing called the Earth Box self watering pot that specifiys NOT to use Potting Soil as it doesnt hold the water the same way. I guess what I need to know is the age ol' question.....which kind of Potting Mix is best for a small indoor grow op. of this kind.....or any kind really. Sorry, i know this is somewhat of a weird question... any advice would help thanks Rating: 5

[texas grass]

pottingsoil is generally top soil

potting mix is a mix of top soil, and other ingredients(depends on company)

[stinkyattic]

Self watering pots require specific media. Google 'hempy bucket'.

Potting mix is usually peat, lime, and perlite. Sometimes it has fertilizer added to it.
Potting soil has true soil added to it as well, but is often also peat based.

Any mix that you understand how to work with is the best one. I don't like self-watering systems unless they are true hydroponics, in a hydroponic mix that is designed to be watered automatically. Sure, commercial growers run promix on auto watering pretty frequently, but a noob should hand-water and learn the plant because over-watering is REALLY easy to do.