Peace Lily care

The Peace Lily hybrids originate from the tropical regions of Colombia and Venezuela, where they grow among the undergrowth of humid rainforests. As houseplants, the most common varieties are the small ornamental Peace Lily (Spatiphyllum floribudum) and the larger, fragrant Peace Lily (Spatiphyllum wallisii). The latter is known for its distinctly fragrant variety that is particularly popular in our country, the "Mauna Lea". The Peace Lily (also known as the Peace Plant) is one of the most low-maintenance houseplants and belongs to the Araceae family.

Many people also know the Peace Lily as Spath, Spathe. It gets its name from its white, flag-like spathes that resemble a peace flag. Additionally, the white color symbolizes purity, innocence, and tranquility. However, despite its name, it is not a true lily and does not belong to the lily family.

Introduction to Peace Lily

Its shape is bushy, and when kept in a properly sized pot, it can reach a size of 3 - 5 feet (1 - 1.5 meters) in both width and height. The leaves are undivided, lance-shaped, evergreen, and glossy. Their veins are either sunken or raised. Each leaf emerges directly from the trunk-like underground rhizomes.

The lance-shaped, glossy leaves of the Peace Lily are stunning even on their own. The flowers of the larger varieties develop on stems that are 24 - 31 inches (60 - 80 cm) long. Under favorable conditions, a single flower can last for up to six weeks, during which the spathe gradually changes from white to light green.

The flowers are not true flowers. They are white spathes that serve as ornamental covers, sail-like, surrounding the rather insignificant spadix. This is where the plant's name, Peace Lily, originates.

The spring flowering is the most intense and abundant, but it can extend until September.

Peace Lily Care

Peace Lily Care: it is one of the most popular houseplants, partly because it is relatively easy to care for. It requires low light and should be protected from direct sunlight. It loves warmth and humidity, and regular watering is essential. It also benefits from regular fertilization.

Light Requirements for Peace Lily

Peace Lily does not like direct, intense sunlight and can thrive with less light, making it an excellent plant for bathrooms. However, in low light, the Peace Lily may produce few or no flowers.

An ideal location is one that is bright, but not exposed to direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause its leaves to yellow or become scorched. A window facing east or north is a good spot for it.

Temperature Requirements for Peace Lily

Being a tropical rainforest plant, Peace Lily requires a warm temperature of 64 - 80 °F (18 - 27 °C) throughout the year. This is the range in which it grows and blooms healthily. It does not tolerate cold well, and temperatures below 59 °F (15 °C) can be harmful. It is highly sensitive to frost and will not survive it.

It does not tolerate sudden temperature fluctuations. Avoid placing it in drafty areas or near heating or cooling units.

Watering Needs for Peace Lily

To care for the Peace Lily, it is essential to know that it loves high humidity. Regular misting is necessary for the Peace Lily. Be careful not to spray directly onto the flowers, as water droplets can cause the beautiful white spathe to turn brown and lose its decorative value.

Create a humid environment by placing the plant on a tray filled with absorbent pebbles or moist, coarse sand.

Keep the soil consistently moist by watering frequently with small amounts of lukewarm, room-temperature, and preferably soft water. From spring to autumn, water once or twice a week. In autumn and winter, reduce watering slightly, allowing the plant to rest, but never let the soil dry out completely. This way, it will be ready to bloom again in spring.

If your Peace Lily does not receive enough water, its leaves will start to droop. If overwatered, the leaves may turn yellow.

Fertilizing Peace Lily

Fertilizing is necessary from early spring to late summer, typically every two weeks. During the blooming period, moderate fertilization is required. Ensure that the soil is not dry when applying fertilizer, as this can cause root burn. Occasionally, foliar feeding can be combined with regular fertilization.

Choose a fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in roughly equal proportions, meaning the three NPK numbers should be close to each other.

During winter, fertilization is generally not necessary unless the plant is kept in a warmer, more active environment.

Planting and Repotting the Peace Lily

Young Peace Lilies need to be repotted annually in March, when new growth begins. A B-type soil mix or similar peat-based soil mix is suitable. The soil should consist of coarse peat fiber, leaf mold, and sand. Adding some well-rotted manure can also be beneficial.

It is important for the growing medium to have good drainage. The root system of the Peace Lily is relatively fragile, so handle it gently when repotting. For larger plants that require a 6 - 10 inch (15 - 25 cm) diameter pot, the roots can also be pruned slightly.

Avoid using leaf shine products. It is sufficient to wipe the dust off the leaves gently with a damp cloth.

Always remove damaged leaves and wilted flowers completely.

Winter Care for Peace Lily

The Peace Lily does not need to be overwintered in the traditional sense, as it is a tropical plant and can be kept indoors year-round. However, during the winter, it is important to adapt to the reduced light conditions and slower growth cycle.

Maintain a temperature of 64 - 75 °F (18 - 24 °C), but do not place it in areas where the temperature drops below 59 °F (15 °C). Protect it from cold drafts and avoid placing it near doors or windows during winter.

Reduce watering in winter but do not let the soil dry out completely. During the heating season, indoor air can become dry, so mist the leaves or place the pot on a humidifying tray.

Fertilization is not necessary during this period, but try to provide as much indirect light as possible.

Blooming of Peace Lily

The characteristic flower of the Peace Lily is not a traditional flower but a white spathe that surrounds a spadix in the center. Over time, this spathe may turn green.

Peace Lily typically blooms in spring and summer, but under favorable conditions, it can produce flowers throughout the year. Each flower generally remains attractive for 1-2 months. As it ages, it first turns brown and then withers.

If your Peace Lily does not bloom for an extended period, check whether it is receiving enough light and nutrients. A plant kept in a very dark location may grow lush leaves but rarely produces flowers.

Pruning the Peace Lily

Peace Lily does not require pruning, but occasionally it is worth removing dead, discolored, or aged parts to keep it aesthetically pleasing and healthy. Removing damaged parts can prevent fungal or bacterial diseases.

Propagating Peace Lily

Propagating Peace Lily is simple, even indoors, as it can be easily divided during repotting. This technique works well because the plant naturally grows in clumps (rhizomes), and new shoots can be easily separated from the parent plant.

Spring is the best time for division, as the plant is actively growing and will recover faster. If the pot is overcrowded with rhizomes, some can be separated.

Look for areas where the roots and shoots naturally separate. Cut the intertwined sections, ensuring that each new division has healthy roots and at least 2-3 shoots.

Plant the carefully separated, rooted sections in suitable pots, being careful not to damage them. The sap can cause skin irritation. Place the plant in a bright, indirect light spot and water it regularly.

Division is the only effective and widely used method for propagating the Peace Lily. It can also be propagated from seeds, but this requires a greenhouse or a heated propagator. Peace Lily is also suitable for hydroponic cultivation.

Peace Lily Diseases, Pests, and Causes of Decline

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) is relatively resistant, but there are some diseases and care-related issues that can occur.

Peace Lily Diseases

Overwatering can lead to bacterial root rot. In this case, the leaves of the Peace Lily will droop and turn yellow, and the soil may emit an unpleasant odor. The roots become brown or mushy. If the problem has already developed, remove the plant from the pot, cut away the diseased roots, and repot it in fresh soil.

High humidity can encourage fungal infections. White or gray mold may appear on the surface of the soil or the leaves. Since the plant loves humidity, it is best to improve ventilation. Remove infected parts. If necessary, use a fungicide.

Bacterial leaf spot may cause watery, brown spots with a yellow halo on the leaves. Remove the affected leaves and reduce misting. If necessary, use a bactericide.

Peace Lily Pests

Pests such as aphids, scale insects, and spider mites may appear, especially in overly dry conditions. These pests feed by sucking sap from the plant, weakening it. The leaves of the Peace Lily may become deformed or yellow. In such cases, it is best to enclose the plant in a plastic bag for a couple of days. High humidity reduces the risk of pest infestations.

Environmental Factors and Improper Care of Peace Lily

If the leaves of your Peace Lily turn yellow, it could be due to insufficient light, overwatering, nutrient deficiency, or over-fertilization.

Leaf drop can indicate water deficiency.

If the leaves droop or the plant appears wilted, this can be caused by overwatering, drought, or root issues. Adjust the watering routine accordingly.

If the leaf edges turn brown, it may indicate low humidity, excessive fertilizer, or exposure to cold drafts or low temperatures.

Is Peace Lily Toxic?

Yes, Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) can be toxic to humans and pets if ingested. Its sap contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are irritating to the skin and mucous membranes. These crystals can cause irritation in the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract. Poisoning is generally not life-threatening and usually results in mild symptoms.

In humans, symptoms may include a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat.

In pets, symptoms of poisoning may include drooling, vomiting, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, respiratory difficulties or tongue swelling may occur.