10 Plant Care Tips You Learned Online Are Probably All Wrong

Introduction

If you’ve ever watched your houseplant slowly wilt despite “doing everything right,” you’re not alone. From watering schedules to pot size, the internet is full of tips that sound convincing — but many are flat-out myths. The truth? Most plants struggle not because we neglect them, but because we follow outdated advice.

In this post, we’ll bust ten of the most common plant myths, share what science and gardeners say, and show how a few smarter choices — like picking the right self watering planter — can make plant care stress-free.

1. Myth: Plants die mostly from neglect

Many plant parents assume their greenery dies from lack of attention. But experts agree: overwatering kills far more plants than underwatering. Yellow leaves, soft stems, and root rot are the silent results of “too much love.”

That’s why so many modern pots now feature built-in water reservoirs in our Posie Pots self watering pot. Instead of guessing with a watering can, these designs release steady hydration at the roots while keeping surface soil dry — a balance that plants naturally prefer.

2. Myth: Bigger pots grow bigger plants

Another common myth? “The bigger the pot, the bigger the plant.” It feels logical, but it’s rarely true. Larger pots hold more soil, which holds more water than roots can handle.

Growth slows, roots suffocate, and plants often die before they reach their potential.

The real question isn’t height — it’s root spread. Matching pot size to root needs supports faster, healthier growth.

👉 Learn how to pick the best size for your plant

3. Myth: All plants need water every week

You’ve probably heard the rule: water once a week. But schedules like this rarely work. Some indoor species thrive on less water, while others want more frequent sips. A fixed “weekly” routine often leads straight back to — you guessed it — overwatering.

Instead, think about hydration over time. Posie Pot's self watering planters has a 10x larger reservoir which store enough water for weeks, releasing it as needed. For many people, that means watering just once a month — freeing you from rigid routines while giving plants exactly what they need.

4. Myth: Indoor plants don’t need drainage holes

Here’s a counterintuitive fact: indoor plants need drainage holes even more than outdoor ones. Outside, rain and wind help soil dry. Inside, water lingers. A pot without drainage quickly turns into a swamp.

That’s why good indoor planters discreetly include a drain hole, preventing soggy soil while keeping furniture safe.

5. Myth: All self-watering pots are the same

It’s tempting to think any “self watering pot” will solve these problems. But many rely on flimsy cotton wicks that clog or shallow reservoirs that dry out. A well-designed planter should:

• release water gradually,

• prevent root rot,

• cut refills down to once a month.

If you’re shopping, it’s worth asking: How does this design really work? 

👉 What makes a good self watering planter

6. Myth: Caring for plants has to be complicated

Maybe the most discouraging myth of all: that plant care has to be complicated. Water charts, soil logs, humidity trackers — no wonder beginners give up. The truth is simpler. With the right tools, anyone can enjoy thriving greenery.

As Posie Pots founder Kay Wells explained on KSDK 5 Show Me St. Louis:

That feature alone sold out thousands of planters on Good Morning America, proof that people want plant care to be easier, not harder.

7. Myth: The Best Plant for Beginners Needs Almost No Care

Lists of “best plants for beginners” such as snake plants, pothos, and ZZ plants often make it sound like these varieties will practically grow themselves. But here is the truth: with the right setup, most plants do not require as much time and effort as you think.

That means you do not have to limit yourself only to what appears on a beginner list. The real joy of planting comes from choosing greenery you actually love, and letting tools like a self watering planter make the care simple. Our mission is to help you enjoy the beauty of plants without the stress of constant care.

If you have ever killed a so-called beginner plant, you are not alone.

👉Here is the secret no one told you about why they really die

8. Myth: The more soil, the healthier the plant

More soil can actually compact and suffocate roots. Plants grow better with soil that stays aerated and drains evenly, not just “more dirt.”

9. Myth: Fungus gnats are just part of indoor planting

Gnats show up when surface soil stays wet. They’re not a fact of life — they’re a sign your watering routine is off. Bottom-watering systems reduce this problem dramatically, since the top layer of soil dries out.

10. Myth: Plastic pots are always convenient

Lightweight, cheap, stackable — plastic seems perfect. But it holds heat and water, and roots end up sitting in conditions that stunt their health. That’s why terracotta and newer bio-based plastics are making a comeback: they breathe better and last longer.

Conclusion: Smarter Plant Care, Healthier Plants

Breaking free from bad advice doesn’t just save plants — it saves time, money, and water. The takeaway? Most “common sense” rules are myths, and modern planters built on science solve those problems quietly.

Ready to Let Your Plants Thrive?

Plant care doesn’t need to be stressful. With Posie Pots self-watering planters, you give your plants steady hydration, healthier roots, and the freedom to grow—while you enjoy watering just once a month.

👉 Shop Posie Pots today and bring home the planter that waters itself.

👉 Claim your first self-watering planter today with Posie Pots—use code WELCOME10 at checkout for $10 off