Plant parents love to share tips and tricks, but there is a lot of misleading and, frankly, wrong information out there about plant care.
Today, we're going to bust some common plant care myths.
Myth 1: You Should Water Your Plants Every Day
Overwatering is actually one of the most common causes of plant death. While the specific watering needs vary depending on the plant species, soil type, and environmental conditions, the general rule is to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Excess water can suffocate plant roots and cause root rot.
Myth 2: All Plants Love Full Sun
While many plants thrive in bright sunlight, others prefer shade or partial shade. Understanding a plant's specific light requirements is crucial for its health. Forcing a shade-loving plant into full sun can lead to leaf burn, wilting, and eventual death.
Myth 3: Coffee Grounds Are Great Fertilizer
Coffee grounds do contain some nutrients, but they can also lower the soil pH. This can be detrimental to many plants. If you want to use coffee grounds in your garden, it's best to compost them first to balance the acidity. (Alternatively, use our Enrich Powder made from worm castings of organic matter - this is a foolproof way to get your plants the nutrients they need!)
Myth 4: Talking to Your Plants Helps Them Grow
While it might be enjoyable to chat with your planty pals, there's no scientific evidence to support the idea that plants benefit from human conversation. Plants communicate through chemical signals and respond to environmental factors like light, water, and temperature. However, if you enjoy a good vent session with your plants from time to time, it's not going to harm them either so no need to stop!
Myth 5: Pouring Coke on Your Plants Gives Them a Sugar Rush
You might have heard the odd suggestion that pouring sugary drinks like Coke on your plants can provide them with a quick energy boost. While plants do produce their own sugars through photosynthesis, they cannot directly absorb sugars from external sources like soda. In fact, pouring sugary substances on your plants can lead to a harmful buildup of sugar in the soil, inviting pests and diseases. Stick to good old water for your thirsty plants!
Do you have a plant care myth you'd like to see debunked? Let us know over on Instagram so we can include it next time.
