Peace lilies can be a little picky. While they’re not all that difficult to grow they do need precise conditions to thrive and be at their best.
And one issue you can face is your peace lilies leaves turning brown. But don’t worry, its actually fairly common.
So let’s take a look at the main reasons why your peace lilies leaves might be turning brown and how to fix them.
1. Inconsistent Watering
Why It Happens:
Inconsistent watering is the most common cause of browning in Peace Lily leaves. They are highly sensitive to both drought and over-saturation. When underwatered the plant’s leaves lack the necessary moisture to maintain their structure and color, and so you get those brown, crispy tips.
On the other hand overwatering can suffocate the roots, preventing them from absorbing water and nutrients effectively, which also results in browning.
What You Can Do:
Feel the soil. If the top inch is dry, it’s time to water. Conversely if it’s damp give it a few more days.
How to Fix:
Adopt a regular watering schedule. Peace Lilies generally thrive when watered once a week but this can vary based on environmental conditions. Always check the soil before watering and make sure the pot has drainage holes to avoid water accumulation.
2. Low Humidity
Why It Happens:
Native to tropical rainforests, Peace Lilies really like high humidity environments, something our homes often lack, especially in the winter when heating systems dry out the air.
What You Can Do:
Boosting ambient moisture can help. Grouping plants together or using a room humidifier can significantly improve humidity levels around your plant.
How to Fix:
DIY a humidity tray or mist your Peace Lily regularly to increase moisture. Regularly wiping the leaves with a damp cloth not only cleans them but also increases local humidity.
3. Direct Sunlight Exposure
Why It Happens:
While Peace Lilies enjoy light they can be damaged by direct sunlight. The delicate leaves can get sunburned which leads to brown patches and a bleached appearance.
What You Can Do:
Position your Peace Lily in a place where it can receive moderate indirect sunlight. A sheer curtain can be a great barrier that diffuses bright sunlight effectively.
How to Fix:
If your plant has already suffered then trim away the severely damaged parts to prevent decay and allow the plant to focus its energy on healthy leaves. Adjusting its position slowly to avoid shock is important.
4. Nutrient Deficiency or Excess
Why It Happens:
A nutrient imbalance can manifest as browning leaves. Too little fertilizer and your Peace Lily may lack the nutrients needed to sustain its foliage; too much, especially with fertilizers high in salts can cause root burn and leaf browning.
What You Can Do:
Fertilize your Peace Lily sparingly – once every 6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, diluted fertilizer.
How to Fix:
If over-fertilization is the issue try leaching the soil by running water through the pot for several minutes. This flushes out excess salts. And pause fertilizing for a few months to allow recovery.
5. Pest Infestations
Why It Happens:
Peace Lilies do attract pests like aphids, spider mites and mealybugs, which feed on plant sap and weaken the plant, often resulting in brown spots on the leaves.
What You Can Do:
Inspect your plant regularly for signs of infestation. Pay attention to the undersides of leaves and where the leaf meets the stem.
How to Fix:
Treat infestations early with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Isolate the affected plant to prevent the spread of pests to other houseplants.
6. Temperature Stress
Why It Happens:
Extreme temperatures or rapid temperature fluctuations can stress your Peace Lily, leading to brown leaves. They prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
What You Can Do:
Keep your Peace Lily away from drafts, air conditioning vents and heat sources. Gradual acclimatization to new environments can help prevent shock.
How to Fix:
If your plant is stressed by temperature extremes, stabilize the environment around it. Consistency is key to recovery.
7. Old Age
Why It Happens:
Leaf browning can simply be a sign of natural aging. Older leaves eventually turn brown and die off as part of the plant’s life cycle.
What You Can Do:
Prune old leaves to encourage growth. This not only keeps your plant looking fresh but also stimulates the growth of new, healthy leaves.
How to Fix:
Regular pruning of dead or dying leaves can help maintain the health and aesthetics of your Peace Lily. Use clean, sharp scissors to cut the leaves at their base near the soil.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining a Peace Lily is all about careful attention to its environment and quick responses to any signs of distress.
Remember though that each plant is unique, so keep a close eye on your Peace Lily’s specific reactions to anything you change and its care regimen and adjust as necessary.