Think you need a green thumb to keep houseplants alive? Think again. There’s a lot of misinformation floating around the plant world, and it’s time we cleared the air (with or without a monstera in the corner). Whether you're a seasoned grower or just starting your houseplant journey, let’s separate fact from fiction—and help your plants truly thrive.
We’re also slipping in some product recommendations so you can build a better indoor jungle with tools that actually work.
Myth 1: All Houseplants Need Direct Sunlight
The truth: Most popular houseplants are tropical understory plants that actually prefer indirect or low light conditions. Think snake plants, pothos, and ZZ plants.
If you’ve got north-facing windows or shady corners, don’t worry—there are plenty of plants that will be just fine there.
Try this: Black Raven ZZ plant, available now in our shop.
Pair it with: 5" Kanso Designs upcycle pot– perfect for dim corners and comes with a drainage tray.
Myth 2: You Should Water on a Fixed Schedule
The truth: Watering once a week is a helpful reminder—but it’s not a one-size-fits-all rule. Your plant’s watering needs depend on the species, season, soil, pot size, and even the humidity in your home.
Overwatering is the number one killer of houseplants. So skip the calendar and check the soil first.
Try this: Soil Moisture Meter
Tip: Always use pots with drainage holes—our 7" Kanso Design Planter has a sleek design and a built-in tray.
Myth 3: Misting Is the Best Way to Boost Humidity
The truth: While misting might temporarily raise humidity, the effect disappears within minutes. Worse, it can encourage fungal growth and leaf spots, especially on plants like fiddle leaf figs. Misting can be used for other purposes, like to assist with cleaning leaves, it should not be used solely for humidity.
For real results, group plants together, use a humidity tray, or invest in a humidifier.
Myth 4: Bigger Pots Make Plants Grow Faster
The truth: It seems logical—bigger pot, bigger plant. But in reality, an oversized pot holds extra moisture, which can suffocate roots and cause rot.
When repotting, choose a pot just 1–2 inches larger than the current one.
Perfect pick: The Monroe Planter – stylish and functional for healthy root growth.
Myth 5: Houseplants Purify the Air
The truth: While it's true that plants can remove toxins in lab settings, you'd need a literal forest in your living room to make a measurable difference in air quality.
That doesn’t mean houseplants aren’t worth it—they boost mood, reduce stress, and look amazing.
Breathe easy with: The Monstera Delciosa
Myth 6: Banana Peels and Coffee Grounds Are Great Natural Fertilizers
The truth: While DIY fertilizers sound eco-friendly, they often do more harm than good. Banana peels can attract pests and rot, and coffee grounds may alter soil pH or block drainage.
Instead, use a balanced fertilizer designed for indoor plants.
We recommend: Thrive Premium Organic Fertilizer – easy to apply, safe, and effective.
Myth 7: Repot as Soon as You Bring a Plant Home
The truth: New plants need time to acclimate to their environment. Repotting right away can shock them, especially if they’re already stressed from transit or climate change.
Unless your plant is root-bound or waterlogged, give it a couple of weeks before repotting.
Ready to repot? Check out our Pot collection for everything you need.
Bonus Myth: A Green Thumb Is Something You’re Born With
The truth: Plant care isn’t magic—it’s observation, patience, and a little know-how. Anyone can be a plant person with the right tools and information.
Start simple: Explore our Plant Killer Club for hardy, forgiving plants that help you grow your confidence.
Final Thoughts
Houseplants bring joy, beauty, and a bit of nature into our homes—but only if we understand what they really need. By ditching these common myths, you’ll spend less time guessing and more time growing.
Looking to level up your plant care game? Browse our curated selection of:
Every product we carry is selected with both style and functionality in mind—because your space (and your plants) deserve the best.