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mother in law tongue plant : Complete Guide and Care Tips

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The Mother in Law Tongue Plant: A Complete Guide and Care Tips

If you’re looking for an easy-to-care-for houseplant that’s also stylish and elegant, look no further than the mother in law tongue plant. This striking indoor plant is known for its long, upright leaves that resemble a tongue, hence the common name. It’s a popular choice among novice gardeners because it doesn’t require much maintenance and can thrive even in low light conditions.

Origins of the Mother in Law Tongue Plant

The mother in law tongue plant, or Sansevieria trifasciata as it is scientifically known, is a species of flowering plants native to West Africa. It has been cultivated since ancient times for its medicinal properties as well as ornamental value. The Romans used it to treat burns while Native Americans used it to cure snake bites.

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Care Tips for Your Mother in Law Tongue Plant

  • Light: While mother-in-law-tongues can grow under low light conditions, they thrive best when placed near bright windows or artificial lighting sources.
  • Temperature: These plants do well at normal room temperatures between 60-85°F (16-29°C). They are sensitive to cold drafts so make sure not to place them near air conditioning vents or open windows during winter months.
  • Watering: Water your mother-in-law-tongue only when the soil has completely dried out. Overwatering can cause root rot which could kill your plant quickly!
  • Fertilization: Fertilize every three weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half strength.
  • Potting: Transplant your mother-in-law-tongue once every 2-3 years into a bigger pot. They grow well in almost any type of potting soil, as long as it is well-drained.

Benefits of Having a Mother in Law Tongue Plant

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The mother in law tongue plant isn’t just aesthetically pleasing – it also has benefits for your health and wellbeing. Here are some reasons why you should consider adding this plant to your home:

  • Purifies the air: The mother-in-law-tongue is known for its ability to absorb toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene and trichloroethylene from the air. It’s great for purifying indoor spaces!
  • Eases respiratory problems: Because they’re so efficient at absorbing toxins, these plants can help ease respiratory problems like asthma and allergies.
  • Increase humidity levels: By releasing moisture into the air through transpiration, these plants can help increase humidity levels – especially helpful during dry winter months!

Troubleshooting Common Problems with Your Mother in Law Tongue Plant

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If you start noticing symptoms like yellowing leaves or stunted growth on your mother-in-law-tongue plant, here are some potential causes and solutions to try:

  • Overwatering: If leaves appear mushy or rotting occurs at soil level cut back on watering frequency and ensure proper drainage.
  • Inadequate lighting: Your plant might not be getting enough light if it becomes leggy or droopy. Move it closer to a bright window or add artificial lighting sources nearby.
  • Pests: Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale can target your mother-in-law-tongue. If you see signs of pests, treat with neem oil or a soap solution.

Conclusion

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The mother in law tongue plant is an excellent indoor plant to have if you’re looking for something easy to care for that also adds beauty and style to your home. Following the tips mentioned above will ensure that your plant thrives and continues to provide all its health benefits. Remember to keep an eye out for any potential problems so you can address them before it’s too late. With proper care, the Mother in Law Tongue Plant will be a long-lasting addition to your home!

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