If December in your house means blasting out Mariah on repeat, then spare a thought for your houseplants. While we humans may thrive on a good dose of festive cheer, research suggests that not all music is good for plants. Indeed, some of the most popular holiday songs can give your Christmas cactus the botanical equivalent of a headache.

Scientists have long researched the effect music has on plants. Charles Spence, a co-author and professor of experimental psychology at the University of Oxford, England, said: “Playing music to plants is not as crazy as it may sound at first. Classical music may have an effect on plant growth because plants are attuned to vibrations, such as the vibrations of running water in soil, and they react to them biologically.”

However, while multiple studies have shown that houseplants exposed to classical-style music grew taller, they have also shown that rock music can stunt their growth. And, it’s not just rock music: generally loud, high-energy, or heavily electronic tracks have a similar effect. Of course, this is something to consider throughout the year, but if you’re more likely to hit play during the holidays, then it might be time to rethink your playlist.