We all love the internet, an amazing place where cat videos reign supreme and everyone's an expert. But when it comes to indoor plants, let's just say there's a fair bit of, shall we say, creative advice floating about. From talking to your indoor plants (no judgment here!) to watering them with leftover tea (hmm, maybe not), it seems everyone's got an opinion on how to keep our indoor plants happy.
Here at Houseplant UK, we're not just about delivering quality indoor plants to your doorstep (though we do that rather well, if we do say so ourselves). We're also passionate about separating the fact from the fiction, the truth from the white lies, the genuine green wisdom from the, well, utter poppycock.
So, grab a cup of tea, settle in, and prepare to have your minds blown (or at least mildly tickled) as we tackle 30 common houseplant "facts" with a healthy dose of wit and botanical know how. We'll be debunking myths, confirming truths, and maybe even unearthing a few surprises along the way.
Think you know your Monsteras from your Money Trees? Think again! This is a jungle of misinformation out there, and we're here to be your trusty guides.
Fact 1: You should repot your houseplants every year.
Verdict: False (mostly!)
Now, hold your horses! While it's true that some speedy growers might need a bit more legroom every year, most houseplants are perfectly content in their pots for a good few years. Over potting can actually do more harm than good, leading to soggy roots and unhappy plants.
A good rule of thumb is to repot when you see roots poking out of the drainage holes or circling the bottom of the pot. And remember, when you do repot, choose a pot that's only slightly larger than the previous one – no need to give your plant a mansion when a cosy cottage will do!
Fact 2: All houseplants need direct sunlight.
Verdict: False!
Blimey, that's a recipe for crispy leaves! While some sun-worshippers like cacti and succulents bask in direct rays, many of our leafy friends prefer a bit of shade or indirect light. Think of it like a British summer – a bit of sunshine is lovely, but too much and we all start wilting.
So, before you stick your ferns on the windowsill, do a bit of research and find the perfect spot for their light needs.
Fact 3: Talking to your plants helps them grow.
Verdict: Unproven (but we're not ruling it out!)
Right, now this one's a bit of a head-scratcher. While there's no scientific evidence (yet!) to prove that a good natter with your Monstera will make it sprout new leaves, there's certainly no harm in giving it a go. Who knows, maybe a bit of encouragement and a few compliments about its lovely foliage will give it the boost it needs.
Besides, we all need someone to talk to, even if they can't quite respond with anything other than a gentle rustle.
Fact 4: You can revive a wilting plant with ice cubes.
Verdict: False!
Now, this is just plain daft. Imagine being parched and someone offering you a handful of ice cubes – not exactly refreshing, is it? Plants prefer their water at room temperature, thank you very much.
Sudden temperature changes can shock their roots and do more harm than good. So, ditch the ice and stick to good old fashioned watering with a can or a gentle shower in the sink.
Fact 5: Misting your plants is essential for their health.
Verdict: It depends!
Ah, the great misting debate. While misting can create a bit of humidity for tropical plants that crave it (think Calatheas and ferns), it's not a magic solution for all your plant woes. In fact, for some plants, it can even lead to fungal problems.
The key is to understand your plant's individual needs. If in doubt, check our handy care guides.
Fact 6: You should always use special "plant food" to fertilise your houseplants.
Verdict: False!
While there's nothing wrong with a bit of fancy plant food now and then, don't feel like you need to break the bank on expensive fertilisers and plant food. Your houseplants can actually thrive on a surprisingly diverse diet.
Banana peels, eggshells, even that leftover water from boiling your veg – all these can provide valuable nutrients for your plants. Just remember, moderation is key. Too much of a good thing can lead to fertiliser burn and unhappy plants.
Fact 7: Cacti don't need any water.
Verdict: False!
Now, this is a classic misconception. Just because cacti are tough enough to survive in arid deserts doesn't mean they can go without a drop of water forever.
They do need a good drink every now and then, especially during their growing season. The key is to let the soil dry out completely between waterings – no one likes soggy feet, not even a cactus!
Fact 8: You can tell if your plant needs water by sticking your finger in the soil.
Verdict: True!
The good old finger test. This is a tried and true method for checking if your plant is thirsty.
Simply stick your finger a couple of inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time for a watering. If it's still damp, hold off for a bit. It's like checking if a cake is baked – you wouldn't want to take it out of the oven too early, would you?
Fact 9: All succulents are cacti.
Verdict: False!
This is a common mix up. While all cacti are succulents, not all succulents are cacti.
Think of it like squares and rectangles – all squares are rectangles, but not all rectangles are squares. Succulents are a broad family of plants that store water in their leaves, stems, or roots. Cacti are just one type of succulent, with specific characteristics like spines and areoles.
Fact 10: You should only water your plants in the morning.
Verdict: Mostly true!
While it's not a hard and fast rule, watering in the morning is generally a good idea. This gives the plant time to absorb the water before the cooler evening temperatures set in, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
However, if you forget to water in the morning, don't panic! Just avoid watering late at night, as the water can sit on the leaves and encourage those pesky fungal problems.
Fact 11: Yellowing leaves always mean you're overwatering.
Verdict: False!
While overwatering is a common culprit, it's not the only reason your plant might be feeling a bit peaky.
Underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, pests, even a simple change in environment can all cause leaves to turn yellow. It's a bit like a doctor diagnosing a headache – there could be loads of underlying causes. So, before you panic and drown your poor plant in apologies (and even more water), do a bit of detective work to figure out the real issue.
Fact 12: You should always remove brown tips from leaves.
Verdict: Mostly False!
While it might be tempting to give those brown tips a quick snip, hold your horses! Trimming them won't actually solve the underlying problem (which could be anything from dry air to inconsistent watering).
Plus, cutting into healthy leaf tissue can stress the plant further. If the brown tips are really bothering you, you can carefully trim them, but make sure you leave a tiny bit of brown to avoid damaging the healthy part of the leaf.
Fact 13: All houseplants are safe for pets.
Verdict: False! (and a very important one!)
Now, this is a crucial fact to remember, especially if you've got furry friends sharing your home. Many common houseplants, like lilies and philodendrons, can be toxic to cats and dogs.
So, before you bring a new plant home, do your research and make sure it's safe for your four-legged companions. You can find all of our pet friendly plants here! (because we care about your pets as much as your plants!).
Fact 14: You can propagate any houseplant from a leaf cutting.
Verdict: False!
While leaf cuttings are a popular way to propagate many plants, it doesn't work for all of them. Some plants, like succulents and snake plants, can be propagated from leaf cuttings, while others, like ferns and palms, require stem cuttings or other methods.
Fact 15: Houseplants can only be grown in traditional pots.
Verdict: False!
Who says plants need to live in boring old pots? Get creative and think outside the (plant) box! You can grow plants in all sorts of quirky pots, planters & containers, from vintage teacups and teapots to old wellies and even hollowed out books.
Just make sure your chosen container has adequate drainage to prevent soggy roots. After all, a bit of personality never hurt anyone, plant or human!
Fact 16: All houseplants prefer to be in humid environments.
Verdict: False!
While it's true that some tropical divas like their air with a side of moisture (we're looking at you, Calatheas!), not all houseplants are quite so high-maintenance. Cacti and succulents, for example, actually prefer drier conditions.
It's all about knowing your plant's individual needs. A bit of research goes a long way in keeping your indoor plants happy and healthy.
Fact 17: You should repot your plant as soon as you bring it home.
Verdict: False! (generally)
Unless your new plant is clearly root bound (roots poking out the drainage holes like they're trying to escape), there's no need to rush into repotting.
Give your plant some time to settle into its new home before subjecting it to the stress of a move. Think of it like moving house – you wouldn't want to start redecorating the moment you walked through the door, would you?
Fact 18: You can use any type of soil for houseplants.
Verdict: False!
Just like we wouldn't want to sleep on a bed of nails, plants have their soil preferences too. Using the wrong type of soil can lead to drainage issues, nutrient deficiencies, and all sorts of unhappiness for your plants.
Most houseplants thrive in a well-draining potting mix that's rich in organic matter. If you're unsure what type of soil your plant needs, check our specific care guides.
Fact 19: Houseplants can attract insects.
Verdict: True! (unfortunately)
The downside of indoor greenery. While houseplants bring joy and beauty to our homes, they can also attract unwanted guests in the form of pesky insects like fungus gnats and spider mites.
But don't despair! Regular checks, good hygiene, and the occasional treatment with insecticidal soap can keep these bugs at bay. Think of it like keeping a tidy house – a bit of preventative maintenance goes a long way in keeping the pests away.
Fact 20: You can save a dying plant with enough love and attention.
Verdict: Sometimes true!
Now, while we can't perform miracles, a bit of TLC can certainly go a long way in reviving a struggling plant.
Identify the problem (overwatering, underwatering, pests, etc.), adjust your care routine accordingly, and give your plant some time to recover. It's a bit like nursing a friend back to health – sometimes all it takes is a bit of patience, support, and maybe a cup of tea (or in the plant's case, a good watering).
Fact 21: Dusting your houseplant leaves is just for aesthetics.
Verdict: False!
While a dust free plant certainly looks spiffing, there's more to it than just keeping up appearances. Dust can actually block sunlight and prevent your plant from photosynthesising properly.
Think of it like wearing sunglasses indoors – not ideal for soaking up those rays, is it? So, grab a damp cloth and give those leaves a gentle wipe down every now and then. Your plants will thank you for it.
Fact 22: All houseplants need to be re-potted into bigger pots as they grow.
Verdict: False!
Contrary to popular belief, not all plants are desperate to upgrade to a bigger pad. Some plants actually prefer to be a bit snug in their pots. Over-potting can lead to waterlogged soil and unhappy roots.
A good rule of thumb is to repot only when you see roots poking out of the drainage holes or circling the bottom of the pot. And when you do repot, choose a pot that's only slightly larger than the previous one. No need to give your plant a mansion when a cosy cottage will do!
Fact 23: Playing music to your plants helps them grow faster.
Verdict: Unproven
Now, this one's a bit of a head-scratcher. While there's no concrete scientific evidence to prove that plants have a penchant for Mozart or a soft spot for the Beatles, there's certainly no harm in trying it out.
Who knows, maybe a bit of background music will create a more relaxing atmosphere for both you and your plants. Just maybe avoid blasting heavy metal at full volume – we wouldn't want to give them a fright!
Fact 24: You should always water your plants until water comes out of the drainage holes.
Verdict: It depends!
While this is a good way to ensure the entire root ball gets a good soaking, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some plants, like succulents and cacti, prefer their soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems. So, it's always best to do your research and understand your plant's specific needs.
Fact 25: You can use coffee grounds as plant food for your houseplants.
Verdict: True (in moderation!)
Used coffee grounds can be a great source of nitrogen for your plants. Just sprinkle a small amount on the soil surface and work it in gently.
But don't go overboard! Too much coffee can make the soil acidic and upset your plant's delicate balance. Think of it like adding a shot of espresso to your best brownie recipe – a little bit adds flavour, but too much and it'll be bitter and inedible.
Fact 26: You can tell how healthy a plant is by the colour of its leaves.
Verdict: Partly true!
While a vibrant, lush green is often a good sign, it's not the be all and end all of plant health. Some plants naturally have variegated leaves with different colours and patterns.
And even a green plant can be struggling with underlying issues. It's a bit like judging a book by its cover – you might miss a hidden gem (or a potential disaster) if you only focus on appearances.
So, look beyond the colour and check for other signs of health, like firm leaves, strong stems, and new growth.
Fact 27: Houseplants can improve your mood and productivity.
Verdict: True!
Now, this is a fact we can really get behind! Studies have shown that having plants around can reduce stress, boost creativity, and even improve air quality.
It's like having a little piece of nature right in your home, bringing the outdoors in and creating a calming and inspiring environment. So, next time you're feeling a bit stressed or uninspired, take a deep breath and admire your houseplants. They might just be the pick-me-up you need.
Fact 28: You should avoid placing houseplants in your bedroom.
Verdict: False!
This is an old wives' tale that's been debunked time and time again. While it's true that plants release carbon dioxide at night, the amount is negligible and won't harm you.
In fact, having plants in your bedroom can actually improve your sleep by purifying the air and creating a more relaxing atmosphere. So, go ahead and add a touch of greenery to your sleeping sanctuary. Just maybe avoid those spiky cacti – you wouldn't want to roll over onto one in the middle of the night!
Fact 29: All houseplants are easy to care for.
Verdict: False! (and a potentially dangerous one for your plant's health!)
While there are plenty of easy care houseplants that can tolerate a bit of neglect (we're looking at you, ZZ plant!), not all plants are quite so forgiving. Some divas, like orchids and ferns, require specific conditions and a bit more attention to thrive.
Fact 30: Buying plants online is risky.
Verdict: False! (especially when you buy from Houseplant UK!)
We might be a bit biased here, but buying plants online can be a fantastic way to access a wider variety of plants, often at better prices than your local garden centre.
And when you buy from Houseplant UK, you can rest assured that your plants will arrive in tip-top condition, thanks to our careful packaging and express delivery service. We check every plant before it leaves our warehouse, so you can be confident you're getting a happy and healthy plants.
Final Thoughts: Separating Facts From Fiction
We've waded through a veritable jungle of houseplant "facts," separating the wheat from the chaff, the blossoms from the poppycock.
From debunking the myth that all houseplants need direct sunlight (crispy leaves, anyone?) to confirming the mood boosting benefits of indoor plants, we've covered a lot of ground. We've learned that talking to your plants might not make them grow faster (but hey, it's worth a try!), that ice cubes are a definite no-no for thirsty roots, and that dusting those leaves isn't just about keeping up appearances.
We've also discovered that not all succulents are cacti (who knew?), that coffee grounds can be a surprisingly good plant food (in moderation, mind you), and that buying plants online doesn't have to be a risky business (especially when you choose a reputable seller like, ahem, Houseplant UK!).
So, what have we learned?
So, what have we learned from this grand myth-busting adventure? Well, for starters, it pays to be a bit sceptical of everything you read on the internet (even if it's written by a charming AI). But more importantly, it's crucial to understand your plant's individual needs and do your research before you start showering it with love (and water). All of our houseplants come with care instructions, you can even scan your plant with your mobile phone to be taken straight to the care instructions for that exact plant.
After all, every plant is unique, just like us humans. Some are happy with a bit of neglect, while others crave constant attention. Some thrive in the sun, while others prefer the shade. And some, well, they just like a good chat and a bit of background music.
The key is to listen to your plants, observe their signals, and adjust your care accordingly.
And if in doubt, don't hesitate to ask for help from the experts (that's us!). We're always happy to share our knowledge and help you create a thriving indoor jungle.
BONUS: Plant Facts Backed by Science
NASA's Clean Air Study
Did you know that NASA conducted a study on houseplants and their ability to purify the air? It's true! They found that certain plants can remove harmful toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air.
Source: Wolverton, B. C., et al. (1989). Interior Landscape Plants for Indoor Air Pollution Abatement. NASA.Plants Can Reduce Stress
Studies have shown that being around plants can lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being.
Source: Lee, M. S., et al. (2015). Interaction with indoor plants may reduce psychological and physiological stress by suppressing autonomic nervous system activity in young adults. Journal of Physiological Anthropology.The Oldest Potted Plant
A cycad in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, is believed to be the oldest potted plant in the world, dating back to 1775!
Source: Royal Botanic Gardens, KewPlants Can Communicate
Plants can communicate with each other through underground networks of fungi, warning each other of danger and sharing resources.
Source: Simard, S. W., et al. (2012). Mycorrhizal networks facilitate tree communication, learning, and memory. In Mycorrhizal Networks (pp. 191-213). Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg.The Titan Arum
The Titan Arum, also known as the "corpse flower," has the largest unbranched inflorescence in the world and smells like rotting flesh.
Source: University of Wisconsin-Madison Botany DepartmentThe Sensitive Plant
The Mimosa pudica, also known as the "sensitive plant," folds its leaves inwards when touched.
Source: Volkov, A. G., et al. (2010). Plant electrical signals: From sensory perception to long-distance communication. Plant, Cell & Environment.The Venus Flytrap
The Venus Flytrap is a carnivorous plant that traps and digests insects.
Source: Gibson, T. C., & Waller, D. M. (2009). Evolving Darwin's 'most wonderful' plant: Ecological steps to a snap-trap. New Phytologist.The World's Tallest Tree
The tallest tree in the world is a redwood named Hyperion, measuring over 380 feet tall!
Source: National GeographicThe Baobab Tree
The Baobab tree can store up to 120,000 litres of water in its trunk.
Source: Patrut, A., et al. (2013). The demise of the largest and oldest African baobabs. Nature Plants.The World's Smallest Flowering Plant
Wolffia angusta, a type of duckweed, is the smallest flowering plant in the world, measuring less than a millimetre in diameter.
Source: Guinness World Records