8 Myths to Stop Believing in While Gardening

Gardening is a rewarding journey filled with discovery, dirt under your nails, and a lot of trial and error. But too often, well-meaning advice or old wives’ tales can lead even the most passionate green thumbs astray. If you’ve ever followed a gardening tip that didn’t quite work out, chances are you were misled by a myth. It’s time to dig up the truth.

Here are 8 gardening myths you need to stop believing:

Gardening Myth no.1 : More Water Means Healthier Plants

Truth:

Overwatering is one of the most common gardening mistakes. Most plants hate soggy roots and can develop rot or fungal diseases if the soil stays wet.

Do this instead:

Water deeply but less frequently, and always check if the soil is dry a couple of inches down before watering again.

Gardening Myth no.2 : Full Sun Means All-Day Sun

Truth:

“Full sun” refers to about 6-8 hours of direct sunlight—not dawn to dusk exposure. Too much sun can actually stress or scorch some plants.

Do this instead:

Observe how sunlight moves through your space and match plant types accordingly (full sun, partial shade, full shade).

Gardening Myth no.3 : Earthworms Are Always a Sign of Healthy Soil.

Truth: 

While earthworms help aerate and fertilize soil, they don’t automatically mean your soil is ideal. Some compact or clay-heavy soils can still house worms.

Do this instead:

Test your soil's structure, pH, and drainage to get a clearer picture of its true condition.

Gardening Myth no.4 : Salt Kills Weeds Without Harming Anything Else

Truth:

Salt can kill weeds—but it also ruins the soil, making it inhospitable for any future planting. It can linger for years.

Do this instead: 

Use mulch, boiling water, or vinegar carefully on unwanted weeds. For best results, pull them out by hand, roots and all.

Gardening Myth no.5 : You Need Chemical Fertilizers to Grow Beautiful Plants

Truth: 

Organic compost, worm castings, and natural amendments often work better and support long-term soil health.

Do this instead: 

Build your soil’s natural fertility with compost and consider organic plant foods rich in balanced nutrients.

Gardening Myth no.6: Pruning Hurts Plants

Truth:

Done correctly, pruning helps plants grow stronger, increases air circulation, and promotes blooming.

Do this instead:

Prune during the right season for each plant, and always use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease.

Gardening Myth no.7: You Can’t Grow Food in Small Spaces

Truth: 

Container gardening, vertical gardens, and compact raised beds make it absolutely possible to grow veggies even on balconies and patios.

Do this instead: 

Choose compact or dwarf varieties and get creative with space-saving setups like hanging pots and trellises.

Gardening Myth no.8: Banana Peels and Eggshells Can Be Planted Whole for Fertilizer

Truth:

While these items have nutrients, burying them whole attracts pests and takes too long to decompose.

Do this instead: 

Compost them properly first, or dry and crush eggshells to use as a slow-release calcium source.

Final Thoughts

Gardening thrives on learning—and unlearning. By letting go of these common myths, you give yourself the chance to garden more effectively, sustainably, and joyfully. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned grower, always be curious, ask questions, and trust nature (and science!) more than hearsay.