Commercial raised bed mix (bagged)

Pre-mixed bagged raised bed soil from brands like FoxFarm Ocean Forest, Miracle-Gro Raised Bed Soil, Coast of Maine Castine Blend, or Kellogg Raised Bed Mix offers convenience and consistency. These products are formulated specifically for container and raised bed growing, with balanced drainage, aeration, and nutrients. Most contain a blend of composted bark, peat or coir, perlite, and slow-release fertilizers. Cost ranges from $8-15 per cubic foot bag. A 4x8x12-inch bed requires approximately 32 cubic feet (roughly 16-20 bags), costing $130-300. This is the most expensive per-volume option but requires zero mixing and guarantees a uniform product. Best suited for small beds, top-up additions, or gardeners without access to bulk delivery. Check NPK values on the bag and supplement with balanced organic fertilizer after 4-6 weeks, as pre-loaded nutrients deplete quickly. Avoid cheap 'garden soil' bags labeled for in-ground use, as these are too dense for raised beds.