Peace lilies are popular plants and generally easy to look after. But that doesn’t mean they can’t struggle or have problems if they’re not given the right care.
So if you’re having issues with your peace lily and it’s dying you’re probably looking to figure out why.
Well the following are nine common signs your peace lily is in trouble and, more importantly, how to rescue it.
1. Yellowing Leaves: Understanding the Causes and Fixes
Yellow leaves are one of the most noticeable signs that something is wrong with your peace lily. There are several potential causes and understanding the underlying issue is key to saving the plant.
Why it Happens:
- Overwatering: The most common cause is overwatering. When the soil remains saturated oxygen can’t reach the roots which can lead to root rot and the yellowing of leaves.
- Underwatering: On the other hand if the soil dries out completely for prolonged periods the leaves can also yellow as the plant goes into survival mode.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: If your peace lily hasn’t been fertilized in a while you the plant may not be getting enough nitrogen causing older leaves to turn yellow.
How to Fix It:
- Adjust Watering: Let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings. Peace lilies thrive in consistently moist (but not soggy) soil. If overwatered then let the soil dry out a little before the next watering.
- Check for Root Rot: If the problem persists take the plant out of the pot and examine the roots. Cut off any black or mushy roots and repot in fresh soil.
- Fertilize: If the plant hasn’t been fertilized then use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half strength once every six to eight weeks during the growing season.
2. Drooping or Wilting Leaves
Drooping leaves can be alarming but peace lilies are known for their dramatic “fainting” response when thirsty. Thankfully they usually bounce back quickly after watering.
Why it Happens:
- Underwatering: Peace lilies are quick to wilt when they’re thirsty which can happen if you’ve neglected watering for a while.
- Overwatering: Surprisingly overwatering can also cause wilting as the plant’s roots drown in too much moisture and can’t take in oxygen.
- Rootbound Plant: If your plant has been in the same pot for too long its roots may be cramped, making it difficult to absorb water properly.
How to Fix It:
- Watering Check: Stick your finger in the soil. If it feels dry, water the plant thoroughly. If it feels wet wait and allow it to dry out slightly before watering again.
- Repot: If you suspect your peace lily is rootbound carefully remove it from the pot and inspect the roots. If they are circling the edges repot into a container that’s about 1-2 inches larger using fresh soil.
3. Brown Tips
Brown tips on your peace lily’s leaves are frustrating but they’re often a sign that the plant’s environment needs adjusting.
Why it Happens:
- Low Humidity: Peace lilies come from tropical regions and prefer higher humidity levels than most indoor environments provide.
- Chemicals in Tap Water: Peace lilies are particularly sensitive to fluoride and chlorine which are often present in tap water.
- Excess Fertilizer: Too much fertilizer can build up in the soil burning the leaf tips.
How to Fix It:
- Increase Humidity: Mist your plant regularly or place it near a humidifier. A pebble tray filled with water beneath the plant can also help.
- Switch to Filtered Water: Use distilled or filtered water or let tap water sit out for 24 hours to allow chemicals to dissipate.
- Cut Back on Fertilizer: Peace lilies don’t need a lot of fertilizer. Fertilize every 6-8 weeks in spring and summer but skip fertilizing in the fall and winter.
4. Brown Spots
Brown spots can be caused by sunburn or, less commonly, by pests like spider mites or fungal infections.
Why it Happens:
- Sun Exposure: Peace lilies prefer indirect light and direct sun can scorch their leaves.
- Pests: Spider mites, aphids and mealybugs can sap nutrients from the plant causing brown or yellow spots.
How to Fix It:
- Move to Indirect Light: If your plant is in direct sunlight, move it to a spot where it gets bright, indirect light.
- Treat Pests: Inspect the undersides of leaves for pests. Wipe the leaves with a mixture of water and mild dish soap or use insecticidal soap to treat infestations.
5. Flowers Browning Before Opening
When flowers on a peace lily turn brown before they even open the plant is likely stressed from inconsistent watering or nutrient deficiencies.
Why it Happens:
- Water Stress: Peace lilies are sensitive to both over and underwatering which can cause flowers to die prematurely.
- Improper Pruning: If you’ve tugged or pulled on the flower instead of cutting it properly this could damage the plant’s ability to produce new blooms.
How to Fix It:
6. Curling Leaves
Curling leaves are usually a sign of temperature stress or exposure to too much direct light.
Why it Happens:
- Cold Drafts: Peace lilies do not like cold air. Temperatures below 65°F can cause the leaves to curl and droop.
- Direct Sunlight: Too much direct light can cause the leaves to curl as a defense mechanism.
How to Fix It:
- Relocate to a Warmer Spot: Make sure your plant is away from windows or doors that might let in cold drafts. Aim for a temperature range of 65°F to 85°F.
- Shade from Direct Light: Move the plant to a more shaded spot or use a sheer curtain to filter direct sunlight.
7. No Blooms
A peace lily that isn’t blooming is likely not receiving enough light or nutrients or it could be stressed from being root bound.
Why it Happens:
- Insufficient Light: Peace lilies need bright, indirect light to bloom. If they’re in too much shade they’ll stop flowering.
- Nutrient Deficiency: A lack of phosphorus, which is vital for flower production, could be preventing blooms.
How to Fix It:
- Improve Lighting: Move your peace lily to a brighter location but avoid direct sunlight. Alternatively you can use a grow light to supplement.
- Fertilize: Apply a balanced fertilizer with an emphasis on phosphorus to encourage blooms. Feed every six weeks during the growing season.
8. Root Rot
Root rot is one of the more severe problems for a peace lily. It’s usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage. If not addressed it can be fatal.
Why it Happens:
- Overwatering: When soil stays too wet the roots can’t get enough oxygen leading to decay.
- Poor Drainage: Pots without drainage holes or compacted soil can trap moisture, promoting root rot.
How to Fix It:
- Repot with Fresh Soil: Carefully remove the plant, trim away the rotted roots with sterile scissors and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
- Improve Drainage: Make sure the pot has proper drainage holes and use a potting mix designed for indoor plants.
9. Foul Smell from the Soil
A musty or sour smell is a clear indication of root rot and possibly bacterial infection.
How to Fix It:
- Repot Immediately: Remove the plant from the pot, discard the soggy soil and trim away any damaged roots.
- Prevent Future Rot: Make sure your peace lily is in a well-draining pot and be mindful of watering to avoid waterlogging.
Final Thoughts
As long as you understand the reasons behind these issues and take the right steps you can keep your peace lily healthy and thriving for years.
Each of these signs is your plant’s way of communicating that something in its care routine needs adjusting. Pay attention, respond appropriately and your peace lily will reward you with years more life.