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Recognizing Houseplants

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-711 -- More Projects »
Gardening expert Mike Hibbard explains how to recognize the types of plants you have in your home.
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Figure A
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Figure B
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Figure C
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Figure D
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Figure E
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Figure F
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Figure G
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Figure H

  • Before purchasing a houseplant, make sure that the environment in your home is the same as it would be in its natural region.

  • Succulents (figure A) are plants that will hold moisture in their leaves for quite a long time.

  • A fern can be recognized by its spidery leaves (figure B). They like lots of humidity and moisture.

  • Fuchsia plants (figure C) have beautiful little bulbs and shiny thin leaves, which means they don't have the ability to hold moisture--you must water them a lot.

  • Plants with a silvery tinge (figure D) are from hot and sunny areas. The silver on the leaves is simply a way for the plant to block the sun. They are used to drier climates and don't need quite as much water.

  • Waxy leaves (figure E) will tell you that the plant likes moisture while it's in bloom, then likes more water throughout the rest of the year. The wax helps to hold in that moisture.

  • Cactus-like plants (figure F) should be treated with little water and high light.

  • Flat-fanned out leaves (figure G) tell you that they are designed to shed water, like tropical plants. They do need a lot of water but little light.

  • Larger-leaf plants (figure H) can tolerate low light better. Their shiny leaves tell us that they repel excess water so as to not build up algae and mold. They do like moisture, however, so be sure to water them a lot.
Guests
Mike Hibbard
Professional Gardener, Bachman's Garden Center
6010 Lyndale Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55419
Phone: 612-861-7311 or 612-861-7676
Toll-free: 866-222-4626
Website: www.bachmans.com
Also in this Episode
TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-711
•Rainy Day Activities
•Recognizing Houseplants
•Preparing Cole Slaw
•Tip of the Day
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