Spend a few minutes in a garden centre or on social media, and you’ll hear plenty of advice about how to keep your plants happy. Some of it is sound wisdom passed down through generations – but a lot of it is pure myth. From how often you should water to what kind of shoes you need to wear while potting seedlings, gardening folklore is full of outdated or misleading tips that can do more harm than good.

The truth is, gardening isn’t about following strict rules. Every plant, soil type, and climate behaves differently, and what works in one garden might fail miserably in another. Learning to question the old sayings – and understanding the why behind them – is what turns guesswork into good gardening.

Myth #1: You need to water your plants every day

This might be one of the most common pieces of gardening advice, but it’s also one of the least helpful. Many new gardeners assume that daily watering equals healthy plants – when in reality, it often leads to shallow roots, fungal problems, and wasted water.

Plants don’t all drink at the same rate. Their needs depend on the species, soil type, weather, and even the time of year. For example, succulents and Mediterranean herbs like rosemary and lavender prefer their soil to dry out between waterings, while vegetables and annuals might need a bit more consistency.

A better approach is to check the soil before reaching for the watering can. Push your finger about an inch into the soil – if it feels dry, it’s time to water. When you do, water deeply so moisture reaches the roots instead of just dampening the surface. This encourages stronger root growth and helps plants cope better during dry spells.

It’s not about watering often – it’s about watering well.

Myth #2: Gravel improves drainage in pots

It’s a piece of advice that’s been passed around for decades: add a layer of gravel or stones to the bottom of your pots to help with drainage. Unfortunately, this old trick doesn’t actually work – and can even make things worse.

When you add gravel to the bottom of a pot, water tends to collect right above it rather than draining away. This happens because water moves more slowly through coarse materials like gravel, creating a soggy layer at the base of your plant’s roots. Over time, that trapped moisture can lead to root rot, mould, and unhappy plants.

Instead, focus on using a high-quality potting mix that’s designed for container gardening. These blends have the right balance of structure and air pockets to keep roots healthy. Just make sure your pot has a drainage hole, and let excess water flow freely.

If you’re worried about soil escaping, place a piece of mesh or a broken bit of terracotta over the hole – it keeps the mix in without blocking the water. Simple, effective, and no gravel required.

Myth #3: Fertiliser fixes everything

When plants start looking tired, many gardeners immediately reach for fertiliser. It’s easy to assume that a quick nutrient boost will bring them back to life — but over-fertilising can often do more harm than good.

Fertiliser isn’t a cure-all. If a plant is struggling because of poor drainage, compacted soil, pests, or too much shade, no amount of feed will fix the real problem. In fact, excess fertiliser can burn roots, alter soil chemistry, and even pollute waterways when it washes away.

Before adding anything, take a closer look at your soil. A simple soil test can reveal whether nutrients are actually lacking or if another issue is to blame. In many cases, improving the soil with organic matter – such as compost or well-rotted manure – offers a gentler, long-term solution that supports healthy microbial life and better structure.

Think of fertiliser as a supplement, not a substitute. Healthy soil and the right growing conditions will always do more for your plants than a handful of granules ever could.

Myth #4: You need expensive gear or “official” gardening clothes

There’s a common belief that to garden properly, you need to look the part – head-to-toe in branded workwear, heavy-duty boots, and professional gloves. But the truth is, you don’t need to spend a fortune to be an effective gardener. What really matters is comfort, practicality, and protection.

Gardening is about function over fashion. You need clothes that let you move freely, shoes that can handle a bit of mud, and gloves that protect your hands from thorns or splinters. That doesn’t have to mean top-of-the-line gear – affordable, durable options often do the job just as well.

For example, clearance Crocs are a brilliant choice for casual gardeners. They’re lightweight, easy to clean, affordable and ideal for slipping on and off between the garden and the house. You don’t need steel-toe boots or expensive waterproof trousers to get your hands dirty; a pair of comfy shoes, old jeans, and a weatherproof jacket are more than enough.

Sustainable choices can also make a difference. Repurposing old clothing or finding quality items second-hand reduces waste and saves money – and you’ll still be just as effective in the garden.

At the end of the day, plants don’t care what you’re wearing. As long as you’re comfortable and protected, you’re dressed for success.

Trust your garden, not the myths

Gardening advice can be wonderful – but it can also lead you astray if it’s based on old habits rather than real experience. The truth is, there’s no single way to do things “right.” Every garden has its own rhythms, shaped by the soil, the weather, and the gardener’s touch.

By letting go of the myths – from daily watering and over-fertilising to buying expensive gear – you give yourself room to experiment, observe, and learn what truly works for your space. Some lessons come from success, others from trial and error, but that’s part of the joy of gardening.

So next time someone swears by a “must-do” rule, take it with a pinch of compost. Trust your garden, stay curious, and remember: healthy plants grow from understanding, not from myths.