I’ve been taking care of plants since I got my first one at the age of 12, and I’ve also helped others care for their plants over the years that I’ve been with the Great Big Greenhouse. Over the years, I’ve learned five plant care myths that people think they can do, but which actually do more harm than good.
Five Plant Care Myths NOT To Do
Overpotting a Plant
Many people will repot a plant into a much larger pot, figuring they’ll grow into it. WRONG! All that excess soil means that the plant’s roots can’t drain it quickly enough, and you end up having a problem with over-watering. You should always pot up an indoor plant one size (one to two inches) at a time.
Sick Plants Need to be Fed
Sick plants usually have problems because the light and/or watering are wrong, or they have an insect pest or disease. Feeding a plant when it is under stress can push it over the edge. Feed healthy actively growing plants.
If You Want a Plant to Grow Faster, Feed it More Often
Truth? Overfeeding a plant can KILL it by damaging the roots. Never feed a plant more than the label directions tell you to.
Yellow Leaves Mean a Plant is Dying
Now, yellow leaves means you may have a problem, but it doesn’t necessarily mean your plant is dying. If it’s losing a leaf or two at the bottom, it may just mean that they’re getting old. Do make sure your plant is getting watered when it needs it. Don’t let it get so dry it wilts because some leaves will yellow then. Don’t water it if you feel the soil with your finger and it still feels damp because you can overwater your plant.
Orchids Should be Watered With Ice Cubes
What?!?!?! Orchids are native to the TROPICAL RAINFOREST! They NEVER, EVER should some in contact with melting frozen water!!! Some people tell you that because it does keep you from overwatering. It may keep that orchid alive, but in order to grow and bloom, orchids need to THRIVE. In order to thrive, you need to remember where orchids are native to.
Poinsettias Are Poisonous
Actually, while poinsettias can cause some gastric upset, they generally won’t kill you. You don’t want your pets barfing on the carpet however, so you do want to make sure they don’t nibble.
Check Before Assuming It’s True
If you hear something about plants, look it up first. Don’t automatically assume it’s gospel truth.