10 Well-Meaning Potted Plant Mistakes You Should Stop Doing Today

I know, I know—we've all been told this one!   But adding stones to the bottom of your pot is a classic piece of advice that does the exact opposite of what you intend.

• The Fix: The stones simply create a 'perched water table.'   This is a layer of soil that stays permanently saturated above the stones, leading to root rot.   Plus, you’re just reducing the amount of precious soil your plant has to grow in.   Skip the stones and just use quality potting mix!

Myth 4: Stop Feeding Your Plants Over Winter

This is one of those 'rules' that's too simple for its own good.   Your plants don't completely stop eating; they just slow down a lot.

• The Fix: Don’t stop feeding entirely—just feed less often.   Because you naturally water less during the cooler months, your plants will automatically receive a reduced dose of fertiliser anyway. When you do water (and feed), they'll have the nutrients they need to keep ticking over until spring.

Myth 5: You Must Cut Off All Yellow Leaves

It’s tempting to prune any yellow bits immediately to keep things looking tidy, but sometimes that leaf is still providing energy.

• The Fix: If it's a very old, bottom leaf on a large, healthy plant, go ahead and snip it.   However, if the plant is small (like a new cutting) or losing several leaves at once, leave it on!   The leaf is still returning nutrients to the plant.   If you suddenly see a lot of yellow, quickly check the roots for rot or inspect the leaves closely for those pesky mealy bugs or other pests.

Myth 6: Repot Immediately to Get Rid of Fungus Gnats

Repotting is a big, stressful job and not a guaranteed fix for fungus gnats.   Why?   Because the gnats love one thing: damp conditions.

• The Fix: The gnats will come back if you keep the soil too moist.   The best solution is to let your pots dry out much longer between waterings.   If you need a bit of help, consider options like Diatomaceous Earth (DE) sprinkled on the soil surface, or safe-use products like Mozzie Bites or Isopropyl Alcohol (Isoprop) as directed.   Forget the suggestions of adding things like eggshells or milk—they only attract more pests!

Myth 7: Repot Every Plant as Soon as It Comes Home

Plant shock is real!   Moving from a nursery to your home is a huge adjustment.   Ripping it out of its comfortable pot straight away only adds to the drama.

• The Fix: Let them adjust to their new environment first.   Place them in their new spot and leave them be for a week or two.   Once they seem settled, you can consider repotting, but even then, I usually only recommend it when the plant is visibly root-bound.

Myth 8: Schedule a Weekly Watering Routine

There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all watering schedule!   A plant’s needs change daily based on light, temperature, humidity, and the season.

• The Fix: Get to know your plants.   You need to check them individually! Pick up the pots to feel the weight, poke your finger deep into the soil, or use a skewer to check for moisture.   You might water one plant every three days in summer, and another only once a month in winter. Get familiar with your plants' hydration habits.

Myth 9: Always Water Plants from the Bottom (Bottom-Watering)

Bottom-watering is popular, but it's not strictly necessary for most plants, most of the time.

• The Fix: 90% of your plants are perfectly happy with water poured over the top.   If you suspect your plant is seriously dehydrated (e.g., coming out of dormancy or the soil has shrunk away from the pot), sitting the pot in deep water for 30 minutes is a great way to ensure the entire root ball is thoroughly moistened.   Otherwise, top-down is perfectly fine.

Myth 10: Isolate a Plant Immediately When You See Mealy Bugs