There are five common gardening myths that people perpetuate, experts at the Royal Horticultural Society have revealed.
Luckily for us, the association's advisors decided to set the record straight after growing tired of receiving “thousands of questions a year” about the same myths.
“Gardening can seem like an age-old tradition that doesn't change much,” says lead horticultural consultant Leigh Hunt.
“All the research that takes place in horticulture every year often overturns long-held beliefs.
“But it still takes time to spread the message to everyone.
“When things change, it's not surprising that it leaves some gardeners confused about what is best to do.
“As garden advisors, we always like to talk about it with the members”
DIGGING TO SOIL
One question the Royal Horticultural Society receives in droves every spring is whether you should dig up your soil to improve its fertility.
“This is not true,” the advisors clarified. “And when digging, nitrogen is released into the soil, which seriously damages soil life.
“It is best not to dig when planting, which fits with the current best approach to nourishing the soil.”
POT PLANTS
Green-fingered Brits are also concerned about whether it is best to grow your plants in a pot or in the ground.
“There has long been a misconception that growing plants in a pot is better,” the experts revealed.
“But planting in pots also limits root spread and increases the need for water and nutrients.
“With a few exceptions, it is better to plant in the open ground.”
Garden tips and hacks
I CAN CROCK
“Gardeners have long believed that potted plants improve drainage, but this is incorrect,” the experts revealed.
“They do not help due to disrupted capillary action and reduced soil volume.
“Instead, gardeners can use a pot to prevent the compost from falling through the hole at the bottom of the pot.”
SUN DAMAGE
If you're an avid gardener, you've probably heard the theory that watering your plants in the sun scorches the leaves. Fortunately, this is not true.
“While it is best to water at ground level, scorching does not happen,” the experts shared.
“Scorching of new plants due to lack of hardening off is much more common.”
REJECTED SOIL
Clay soils contain more than 30% fine clay particles that swell and shrink as they become wet and dry, effectively cultivating themselves.
“A common myth among those who plant in clay soil is that it is best to make a large planting hole that you can fill with grit,” the experts said.
“However, this creates a pit, which causes the roots to become waterlogged and rot, which harms the plants.”