Debunking the top five gardening myths

Here we debunk the top five myths most commonly received by the RHS Advisory Team from gardeners:

1. Digging for soil fertility 

Many gardeners believe you need to dig to improve soil fertility. This is false, and digging releases soil nitrogen, damaging soil bio. It is best not to dig when planting, which fits the current best approach to feeding soils.

2. Pot Planting

There has been a long-time misconception that growing plants in a pot is better, but pot planting also causes limited root spread and increases the need for watering and feeding. With some exceptions, it is better to plant in soil. 

3. Crocks in pots improve drainage

Gardeners have long believed that crocks in pots improve drainage, but this is false. Disrupted capillary action and reduced soil volume mean they don’t help. Instead, gardeners can use a crock to prevent the

Can refer to either home-made garden compost or seed/potting compost: • Garden compost is a soil improver made from decomposed plant waste, usually in a compost bin or heap. It is added to soil to improve its fertility, structure and water-holding capacity. Seed or potting composts are used for growing seedlings or plants in containers - a wide range of commercially produced peat-free composts are available, made from a mix of various ingredients, such as loam, composted bark, coir and sand, although you can mix your own.

When things change, it’s hardly surprising that it leaves some gardeners confused about the best thing to do. As gardening advisors, we are always happy to talk it through with members.
- Leigh Hunt

4. Not watering in the sun

A long-held misconception is that watering in the sun scorches leaves. Though it is best to water at ground level, scorching does not happen. Scorching to new plants from lack of

Gradually acclimatising tender or indoor-raised plants to outdoor conditions, to toughen them up and prevent a check in growth. Place plants outside in a sheltered spot during the day then bring indoors at night for a couple of weeks. Or place in a coldframe, opening the lid during the day.

5. Planting holes in clay soil 

A common myth among those planting in clay soil is that it is best to make a large planting hole to fill with grit. However, this creates a sump, so the roots get

Describes soil or potting compost that is saturated with water. The water displaces air from the spaces between soil particles and plant roots can literally drown, unless they are adapted to growing in waterlogged conditions. Waterlogging is common on poorly drained soil or when heavy soil is compacted.