Busting common houseplant myths: What you an stop believing today

If you’ve ever hesitated to bring home a leafy green friend because “you don’t have green fingers”, chances are you’ve come across at least one piece of dodgy advice about houseplants. From when to water them to how much sunlight they really need, there’s no shortage of myths floating around the internet (or passed down from a well-meaning relative). And while some of these claims might be harmless, others could be doing more harm than good.

Myth 1: You must water your plants on a strict schedule

It can be tempting to think plants thrive on routine, but the truth is, most houseplants aren’t looking for a weekly watering calendar. In fact, rigid watering schedules can do more harm than good. Overwatering is one of the leading causes of plant problems, especially around cooler or less sunny seasons when your plant’s growth slows down. What matters more is how dry the soil is—not the day of the week. Stick your finger into the soil about an inch deep to feel the dryness of the soil.

Myth 2: More sunlight means happier plants

Sunlight is essential, but more sunlight isn’t always better. Some plants, especially those native to forest floors, actually thrive in lower light and can get scorched in direct sun. Positioning your plants in the brightest window you have isn’t always the best move, especially during the harsh midday hours. Note that “bright, indirect light” doesn’t mean “dim corner”.

Myth 3: Mist your plants to keep them humid

Misting your plants has become something of a ritual on social media—but for many species, it’s more of a feel-good habit for the human than a necessary step for the plant. While misting can temporarily raise humidity, it evaporates quickly and doesn’t really replicate the damp, tropical conditions some plants need.

Myth 4: A bigger pot means faster growth

It might seem logical to give your plant lots of space to grow into, but upsizing too quickly can backfire. When there’s too much soil around a plant’s roots, it often stays wet for longer, which increases the risk of root rot. Most houseplants prefer being a little snug in their pots. When you do repot, go one size up, not three. It gives your plant room to stretch without overwhelming it with a soggy new home.

Myth 5: All houseplants purify the air

This is one of those myths that just won’t die, even though the original NASA study it came from has long been misunderstood. Yes, some plants can remove toxins from the air in lab conditions, but to have a real purifying effect in your home, you’d need hundreds of them in a single room.

Image Credit: Pexels

When it comes to plants, it is important to be open to experiments. What works for one plant in one room might not work for another, and that’s okay. Plant care is more about learning and adjusting than following strict rules. It is a trial-and-error method.

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