Hydrofarm
Sunshine Mix #4 Compressed Bale
Best organic growing medium for gardeners of all skill levels.
Sunshine Advanced Mix #4 is a professional-grade growing medium perfect for both experienced gardeners and beginners. This compressed bale is expertly crafted with Canadian Sphagnum peat moss, perlite, and coconut coir. It includes an organic starter nutrient charge with gypsum and dolomitic limestone for immediate plant feeding. Enhanced with multiple strains of mycorhizzae, it boosts nutrient and water uptake, improving plant resilience to environmental stress. This OMRI certified mix ensures organic composition for healthy plant growth.
$58.66
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
504
/ 1179
#504 in Soil
Price vs Category Average
+16%
Above average
Volume
3.8
/ Cu Ft (Compressed)
Who it's for
- Commercial growers managing large-scale planting projects
- Gardeners cultivating sensitive or long-term crops
- Professional growers requiring predictable, uniform results
Who should skip it
- Indoor gardeners sensitive to airborne dust and debris
- Gardeners seeking an immediate, ready-to-use planting medium
- Hobbyists with limited storage or small growing areas
Performance breakdown
Root Development
Mycorrhizal strains significantly accelerate root colonization and nutrient absorption.
Moisture Retention
Peat moss and coconut coir blend provides ideal water-holding capacity.
Aeration Quality
Coarse perlite ensures excellent drainage and prevents soil compaction over time.
Storage Efficiency
Compressed bale format maximizes space in sheds and small storage areas.
Nutrient Availability
Organic starter charge provides immediate, balanced feeding for young plants.
Organic Integrity
OMRI certification guarantees a clean, high-quality medium for organic gardening.
Key Specs
Volume
3.8 Cu Ft (Compressed)
Primary Components
Canadian Sphagnum peat moss, coarse perlite, coconut coir
Nutrient Charge
Organic starter nutrient charge
Microbial Inoculant
Multiple strains of mycorhizzae
Fertilizer Source
Organic, Mineral Based
Organic Certified
true
Target Plant Type
Vegetables, Flowers, Trees and Shrubs, Houseplants
Country of Origin
Canada
Features
- Professional results, beginner-friendly formulation
- Compressed bale for easy storage
- Boosts plant resistance to stress
- Organic starter nutrients for immediate feeding
- Enhanced nutrient and water uptake
- OMRI certified organic composition
What customers say
Consumers consistently praise the superior quality and performance of Sunshine Mix #4. Gardeners appreciate its light, airy structure and excellent drainage, noting significant improvements in plant health and growth compared to standard mixes. While the initial compressed bale requires careful hydration, the resulting medium is highly effective. Users feel the premium results genuinely justify the cost, establishing this mix as a reliable foundation for successful growing and offering exceptional value.
Know before you buy
The multiple strains of mycorhizzae act as a beneficial microbial inoculant that creates a symbiotic relationship with plant roots. This significantly improves the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients while increasing overall resilience to environmental stressors.
No, the Sunshine Mix #4 comes pre-loaded with an organic starter nutrient charge, along with gypsum and dolomitic limestone. These components provide immediate feeding for your plants, though you should monitor growth and supplement as needed based on the specific requirements of your plant variety.
Yes, this mix is versatile enough for a wide range of applications, including vegetables, flowers, trees, shrubs, and indoor houseplants. Its blend of peat moss, perlite, and coir provides the necessary drainage and aeration for both container-grown and in-ground plants.
While the bale is compressed for easier storage and transport at 3.8 cubic feet, it will expand significantly once loosened and hydrated. You should plan for a substantial increase in volume when preparing your pots or garden beds.
Yes, Sunshine Advanced Mix #4 is OMRI certified. This confirms that its composition meets the standards required for organic production, making it a safe choice for organic vegetable and herb gardens.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$59