What kind of soil should I use in my containers?

Don't be tempted to use soil from the garden in your annual containers and flower pots. It will compact, causing problems for the root system, and is likely to contain pests and diseases. A better bet is soilless medium usually labeled potting soil purchased from a store. Most contain a mixture of peat or coir, and a smaller percentage of vermiculite and/or perlite. Avoid mixes that say “moisture control” or “self-watering” on the label if you are growing vegetables. These may or may not be safe for growing vegetables.

It is worth noting that all basic soilless mixes do not contain soil - therefore they don't have the nutrients plants need to grow. Unless the manufacturer has added compost or fertilizer or you remember to add some yourself, your plants will suffer. Carefully read the label on the bag to see just what you're buying! 

While it can be reused for a few years, the soilless mix doesn't last forever. For large containers, replace 25% of the soilless medium every year and replace all of it every fifth year.

Growing in a raised bed? This is very different. As these are basically permanent or semi-permanent structures and are left to the elements all year long, often planted with a mixture of annuals and perennials. All raised beds should be filled with soil. You can use plain old soil from your yard (add lots of compost!) or purchase topsoil. We recommend purchasing topsoil that is mixed with compost and peat moss, which may also be referred to as "triple mix". Whichever you choose, make sure you're not using potting soil in your raised beds.

Topsoil is sold in the bulk section of your greenhouse or landscape supplier. Bagged soil (even those calling themselves topsoil) are peat based and have no mineral content so they are unsuitable for long term use in a raised bed. How can you tell if you're purchasing real mineral soil? Put some in a jar of water and shake it. If it sinks, it's probably soil. We recommend straight topsoil or topsoil with compost mixed into it. Many topsoil mixes are available, but remember, the more extra stuff added to topsoil, the less topsoil there is by volume.