We used a Scotts brand garden soil mixed with a compost from a local community garden. Another trusted soil for container gardening is Coast of Maine's Cobscook Blend Gardening Soil premixed with compost and peat moss for aeration. Some mixes contain fertilizers. We added an organic fertilizer to provide an extra nutrient boost. We also lightly moistened and mixed the soil before adding to the container. Fill to within two inches of the rim.