Peace lilies are one of the best and most popular choices for introducing some greenery to an indoor space. They look great and are relatively easy to look after.
But even with being fairly simple to look after you still have to care for them the right way.
So use these straightforward tips to care for your peace lily the right way and make sure it’s thriving and healthy.
Light Requirements
Peace lilies are known for their adaptability to low light. But they’ll flourish and bloom more often with moderate indirect light. Here’s the best way to strike the right balance:
What’s the Ideal Spot?
- Best light: Place your peace lily near a window with sheer curtains or in a room that gets bright but indirect light. An east facing window works wonders since the gentle morning sun won’t scorch its leaves.
- Signs of too much light: Leaves turning yellow or browning, or appearing scorched, can be a sigh your peace lily is getting too much direct sun.
- Adjusting to low-light areas: Peace lilies can survive in low light but it will slow down their growth and blooming. If that’s your setup then you might want to add an LED grow light for a few hours a day during winter months.
Watering
Watering peace lilies is often the trickiest part. They like consistent moisture but are sensitive to overwatering which can cause root rot. So here’s how to do it the right way:
How Often to Water
- Test the soil: Stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry then you can be confident it’s time to water.
- Frequency: Typically peace lilies need water once a week. Adjust based on your home’s temperature and humidity.
- Room-temperature water: Use room-temperature water so you don’t shock the roots.
Watch Out for Overwatering
Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes. Signs of overwatering include wilting despite damp soil, yellowing leaves and mushy roots. To prevent this make sure your pot has proper drainage.
Misting and Humidity
Peace lilies love humidity. If your home is dry, especially during winter, misting your plant can help. Alternatively you can group your plants together to create a more humid microenvironment. Or if possible add a small humidifier nearby.
Ideal Temperature and Humidity
Peace lilies enjoy a stable temperature. Aim for a range between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C).
Temperature Tips
- Avoid cold drafts: Keep your peace lily away from drafty windows, air conditioners and heaters.
- Winter care: If your home gets particularly cold then moving the plant to a warmer spot will always be a good idea.
Humidity
If you notice brown tips on the leaves, it’s likely a sign of low humidity. Try one of these methods to help:
- Regular misting: Mist the plant’s leaves every couple of days.
- Humidity tray: Place a shallow dish of water with pebbles under the plant pot. As the water evaporates it’ll boost the humidity around the plant.
- Bathroom placement: The steam from showers creates a naturally humid environment.
Choosing the Right Soil and Fertilizing
Peace lilies prefer soil that mimics their natural rainforest habitat. That is rich, loose and well draining soil.
Best Soil for Peace Lilies
- Use a balanced potting mix: Look for mixes with organic matter like peat or coconut coir which retain moisture without becoming soggy.
- Avoid heavy garden soil: Dense soil can suffocate the roots.
Fertilizer Needs
Feed your peace lily every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Skip fertilizing during the fall and winter as the plant’s growth naturally slows.
Repotting Your Peace Lily
Peace lilies grow best when they’re slightly root-bound. However every 1-2 years you’ll probably need to upgrade them to a larger pot to accommodate growth.
How to Repot
- Choose a new pot: Pick one just a few inches larger than the current pot.
- Timing: Spring is ideal as it gives the plant time to adjust during its growing season.
- Process: Gently remove the plant, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil. Water thoroughly after repotting.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Every peace lily owner encounters their own issues. Here’s how to tackle some of the most frequent problems:
Yellowing Leaves
Yellow leaves can indicate several issues:
- Overwatering: Check soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule.
- Lighting: If the plant isn’t getting enough light – move it to a brighter spot.
- Nutrient deficiency: Try a balanced fertilizer every few weeks.
Brown Tips
Brown tips are usually caused by low humidity or over-fertilization.
- Increase humidity: Mist the leaves or place a humidity tray nearby.
- Reduce fertilizer: If you’ve been fertilizing regularly ease off a bit.
Leaf Curling or Wilting
If the leaves are wilting but the soil feels damp then overwatering is likely to be the issue. Let the soil dry out before watering again.
Lack of Blooms
For those who want their peace lily to bloom proper lighting is key. These plants need bright, indirect light to flower. So make sure they’re getting enough light and feed them with a balanced fertilizer to encourage blooms.
Encouraging Blooms
Although peace lilies don’t flower constantly they can bloom multiple times a year under the right conditions.
Tips for Better Blooms
- Give them more light: Move them to a well-lit spot that gets indirect sunlight.
- Regular feeding: Fertilize with a bloom-boosting fertilizer, rich in phosphorus, to stimulate flower production.
Additional Tips and Tricks
Keep Leaves Clean
Dust on the leaves can hinder photosynthesis. Wipe them down with a damp cloth every month to keep them looking lush.
Pruning and Support
- Pruning: Remove yellow or dying leaves and spent blooms to keep the plant healthy.
- Support: For taller peace lilies that may lean you can add a small stake to support the stem.
Beware of Pests
Peace lilies can attract pests like spider mites and mealybugs. If you spot any then wipe the leaves with a solution of mild soap and water or use neem oil for a natural pest repellent.
Final Thoughts
With the right care, a few simple adjustments and regular attention your peace lily will thrive in your home.