old secrets vs. new tricks

When I was a child, my grandmother’s living room always had a mother-in-law’s tongue (some call it snake plant) standing tall by the window. Back then, it was just a sturdy green companion, never once did I see it bloom. Now, decades later, I hear younger gardeners bragging about coaxing delicate white flowers from this old-fashioned plant. It makes me wonder—have we lost the patience and wisdom of the past, or are these new methods really better? In our North American climate, especially with our cold winters and dry homes, getting a mother-in-law’s tongue to flower feels almost magical. Some folks swear by neglect—letting the soil dry out, barely watering, just like our parents did. Others, armed with grow lights and fancy fertilizers, treat their plants like pampered pets. I tried both, and honestly, my best blooms came after a long, forgotten winter in the corner, just like grandma used to do. But here’s the rub: my local gardening group is split. Some say letting a plant struggle is cruel, others argue it’s the only way to see those rare blossoms. And don’t get me started on the debate about whether these tough plants belong in our living rooms at all—some neighbors complain they’re too old-fashioned for modern décor, while others cherish them as a living link to family memories. So, what’s your take? Should we stick to the tried-and-true ways of our elders, or embrace the new techniques? Have you ever seen your mother-in-law’s tongue flower? Share your stories, and let’s see whose method truly stands the test of time. #gardeningdebate #familytraditions #plantmemories #Gardening