No houseplant collection is complete without a Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum). These beautiful plants are incredibly popular for a reason.
They are low maintenance, thrive in low light conditions, and have the unique ability to let you know when they need water.
Plus, they are one of the few plants that will bloom in low light. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about growing and reviving your Peace Lily.
Let’s dive into the world of Peace Lilies and discover how to care for them to ensure they thrive in your home.
1. Light
Peace Lilies prefer bright indirect light, making them perfect for spaces with northern or eastern exposure windows. They can even survive in an office with no windows, provided that there is artificial light for several hours a day.
However, it’s important to avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves. If you’re looking for other low-light plants, check out our blog post on the lowest light plants for no-window spaces.
While Peace Lilies can tolerate lower light conditions, they will reward you with plenty of flowers if you provide them with appropriate light.
However, if your goal is to enjoy the glossy leaves rather than the blooms, they can survive with less light. Monitor your plant closely to ensure it is happy and adjust the light accordingly.
2. Temperature
Peace Lilies prefer warmer temperatures and thrive in a range of 65°F-85°F. If you’re comfortable in the room, your Peace Lily will likely be comfortable too.
Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or drafts, as they can negatively impact the plant’s health.
3. Watering
Peace Lilies enjoy consistently moist soil. If you let the soil dry out too much, the plant will start to wilt and collapse. To revive a wilted Peace Lily, thoroughly water it by soaking the entire pot in the sink.
The plant will quickly recover from this treatment. However, it’s important not to let it reach the point of wilting too often, as it can weaken the plant over time.
If you notice that the potting mix has become extremely dry and is difficult to re-wet, you may need to water the pot several times in a row until the soil absorbs the water properly.
This is crucial to prevent your Peace Lily from wilting again soon after watering.
4. Repotting
Peace Lilies are fast-growing plants with vigorous root systems. When the time comes to repot your Peace Lily, divide the plant at the roots. This will help the plant continue to thrive and prevent it from becoming root-bound.
Check out our blog post on how to repot a plant that is root-bound for step-by-step instructions.
When repotting, make sure not to miss the critical step of removing any loose soil and dead roots. This will ensure the plant receives proper nutrients and moisture in its new pot.
For an amazing potting mix, consider trying the Rainforest Soil Blend from Oh Happy Plants.
5. Fertilizing
To ensure optimal growth and health, it’s recommended to fertilize your Peace Lily dilutely at every watering from late winter to early fall.
A great fertilizer option is Dyna-Gro Grow, which contains all the necessary micro and macro nutrients for plant growth. Use 1/4 teaspoon per gallon of water when fertilizing.
6. Cleaning Peace Lily Leaves
Peace Lilies have large leaves that attract dust. It’s important to regularly clean these leaves to promote optimal health and growth. You can use a damp sponge or paper towel to wipe off the dust.
Alternatively, you can place the plant in the sink or shower and wash the leaves while giving the plant a thorough watering.
If your Peace Lily is in bloom, don’t be surprised to see a white powdery substance on the leaves. This is pollen and is completely normal.
7. Propagating Peace Lily
The easiest way to propagate a Peace Lily is by dividing the plant at the roots during repotting. This method allows you to create new plants while ensuring the health of the parent plant.
Follow the steps outlined in our blog post on repotting a Peace Lily for a detailed guide.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the tips of my Peace Lily turning brown?
Brown tips on Peace Lilies are usually caused by extremes in moisture levels. If the plant dries out too much or stays wet for too long, the tips may turn brown.
Other factors include root-bound conditions and excessive fertilizer salts. For a detailed discussion on brown tips in plants, refer to our blog post on the top reasons for brown and crispy leaves.
Why is my Peace Lily drooping or wilting?
Drooping or wilting Peace Lilies can be a result of the plant going completely dry or staying wet for extended periods. If you notice wilting, check the soil moisture and adjust accordingly.
If the plant has suffered root rot, discard any excess water and let the soil dry out. If the plant doesn’t recover after a few days, repot it. For further causes of drooping Peace Lilies, refer to our detailed blog post.
Why are the leaves of my Peace Lily turning yellow?
Yellow leaves in Peace Lilies can be caused by excessively dry or wet soil. It can also result from too much direct sunlight.
To determine the cause, check the soil moisture and adjust the plant’s location accordingly. For a more in-depth discussion on yellow leaves in plants, refer to our blog post on fixing plants with yellow leaves.
Why are the flowers of my Peace Lily turning green or brown?
The flowers of Peace Lilies naturally fade over time. As the flowers age, the spathe may turn green and eventually brown. You can remove the entire flower stem once this occurs.
For more frequently asked questions about Peace Lilies, check out our blog post on common problems and solutions.
9. Toxicity
Peace Lilies are toxic to cats and dogs due to the presence of calcium oxalate. If you have pets, it’s important to keep your Peace Lily out of their reach to prevent any accidental ingestion.
For more information on plant toxicity, refer to the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants.
10. Conclusion
Peace Lilies are beautiful houseplants that deserve a place in every home. With their low maintenance requirements and ability to thrive in low light, they are a popular choice among plant enthusiasts.
By providing them with appropriate light, consistent moisture, and regular care, you can enjoy the lush foliage and occasional blooms of your Peace Lily.
Remember to follow the guidelines outlined in this guide to ensure the optimal growth and health of your plant.
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to bring a Peace Lily into your home and experience the joy of caring for this remarkable plant.