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Recommended soil? #931922

Asked May 16, 2026, 4:28 PM EDT

I have a raised container for flowers—roughly 5’x2’, about 3’ off the ground. I’m unsure what kind of soil to buy. Some say specialized container mix, others potting soil, others NOT potting soil! Thanks!

Dakota County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hi Rachel, 

Thanks for reaching out. I'd recommend looking for a potting mix or raised garden bed / container mix of soil. This will be lightweight and is intended for container use. "Garden soil" bags or "topsoil" bags will be too heavy for your elevated box. Using heavy soils in containers restricts air and water movement that is helpful for plant growth.

Here's an article with more information: https://extension.umn.edu/news/starting-your-garden-and-containers-right

I hope this helps!

An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 16, 2026, 8:01 PM EDT

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