The Habitat
Home
Share to Pinterestpeace lily plant
HomeIndoor plants

Peace Lily Troubles? Here's Your Comprehensive Guide

By Staff Writer
Share to Pinterestpeace lily plant
Advertisement

Peace lilies are a popular houseplant. They're attractive, easy to take care of, and one of the best natural air purifiers around. But every so often, they can run into some problems, just like any other plant.

New peace lily parents and expert growers alike may experience issues from time to time. The most common offender is water, but lighting, pests, environment, and soil contamination are other factors to consider when troubleshooting.

01

I keep watering my peace lily, and it still looks lifeless

Peace lilies are tropical plants that thrive on humidity. Yet, they don't like a lot of moisture in their soil. Overwatering is overwhelmingly the most common caretaking mistake. If your plant continues to look distressed after you water it several times, it may be dead or dying.

Unearth your plant. If the roots are mushy, then root rot has overtaken, and it can't be saved. If you do have some roots left, gently clean off the dead portions and replant the peace lily in fresh, dry soil. Use a sterile, well-draining pot only slightly larger than the root ball. Mix a fungicide into the soil before planting.

If your peace lily still appears lifeless despite regular watering, consider enhancing its environment with a LORDEM Grow Light.

Advertisement
02

My peace lily's leaves are yellow

Share to PinterestOne yellow withered leaf on decorative home plant called Spathiphyllum
AHatmaker / Getty Images

Yellowing leaves aren't an uncommon malady in peace lilies. The problem is that this one symptom can have many causes. Overwatering is one, and so is underwatering. Nutrient deficiency may also be a factor, or the leaves may simply be dying as part of the peace lily's natural life cycle.

Look back on what you've been doing the past few weeks. Depending on the situation, repot the plant, add water, or incorporate fertilizer. Ideally, make just one change at a time so you can narrow down the problem.

Advertisement
03

Why are the tips of my peace lily's leaves brown?

The main cause of leaf tips turning brown is over-fertilization. Too much fertilizer can burn the plant, and your peace lily is telling you this by displaying brown tips. Cut back on the chemicals for a while, and perhaps repot your plant.

Fluoride, chlorine, and hard water are other reasons for leaf tips turning brown. Again, this has to do with an overabundance of chemicals. It's best to use distilled or rainwater on your plants.

To combat brown tips on your peace lily's leaves, enrich its soil with Organic Plant Magic.

Advertisement
04

The leaves of my peace lily are turning black

Black leaves are even more complex than yellowing foliage. Follow the same protocol for yellow leaves since any of the same afflictions could be at play. In addition, blackening may be caused by cold exposure or too much light. Make sure your plant is in a warm area with indirect light.

Advertisement
05

My peace lily's leaves are drooping

Share to PinterestWilting peace lily (Spathiphyllum) in a pot

When your peace lily doesn't look sickly, but its leaves are drooping, this is often a sign of underwatering. If the soil seems dry and you've inadvertently neglected your flower for some time, slowly give it something to drink. Within a few hours, you should see the greenery begin to perk up.

Elevate your drooping peace lily to new heights for better air circulation and light exposure with an AUGOSTA 3 Tier Plant Stand.

Advertisement
06

Is it natural for peace lily leaves to turn white?

Peace lilies typically have dark green leaves. Though with dozens of varieties out there, some are variegated with hues of silver, white, green, and cream. Certain types may have light green or white foliage. Occasionally, leaves can even transform over time. However, if the texture as well as the color changes, there is likely a problem.

Aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites are common peace lily enemies. If white blotches, dust, or fuzz develop, there's a good chance you have an insect infestation. Wiping the leaves off or using insecticide can help, but if the colony is large, you may want to get rid of the plant to avoid contaminating other houseplants.

Advertisement
07

Should my peace lily's flowers be green?

A peace lily's bracts, or flowers, may sometimes begin green. Once they mature, they turn white. When they're ready to die off, they might turn green again. If your bracts are consistently green, though, this is a classic sign of too much light. Move your plant to an area with less intense, more indirect sunlight.

Advertisement
08

My peace lily never flowers

Share to Pinterestpeace lily plant
Anya Why / Getty Images

Some peace lilies regularly flower. Others have a certain timeframe for sprouting bracts. If you've had your plant for a while and you've yet to see any buds, it's time to move it to a brighter spot.

A lot of peace lilies can survive in shade or low-light areas, but they won't produce flowers. As pretty as the foliage is, relocating your plant to a place with higher amounts of indirect light should spur bracts to bloom. Adding a bit of fertilizer can't hurt, either. And if your peace lily hasn't been transplanted in a couple of years, consider upgrading its home.

Advertisement
09

Why are my peace lily flowers dying?

The natural plant cycle entails flowers blooming and dying off. You should expect this with your peace lily. If your bracts seems to be dropping at a high rate, though, this could be more than simple growth ebb and flow.

Flowers require a lot more nutrients than foliage, so if your plant gets stressed — ultimately if it's worried it may die — it may try to prolong its life by ditching the flowers. Peace lilies prefer stagnation, so moving or transplanting them could take a readjustment period. Let your plant focus on getting acclimated to its new environment for a few weeks; then it should be okay.

Advertisement
10

My peace lily doesn't seem to be growing

Lack of proper fertilization will cause stunted growth in peace lilies. They don't require an exceptional amount of soil additives, but every so often, they need an extra bit of food. Using a fertilizer containing magnesium sulfate works well. Even diluting Epsom salts in water should get your peace lily back on track.

Advertisement
11

Role of humidity in peace lily care

Share to Pinterestwoman with hand over humidifier
DimaBerlin / Shutterstock

Originating from humid environments, peace lilies have a natural affinity for moisture-rich air. In homes, especially during winter, the air can become dry, causing stress to these plants. A solution is to invest in a humidifier, which not only benefits your peace lily but also improves the overall ambiance of your living space. If a humidifier isn't an option, placing a tray filled with water near the plant can also help. This simple act can boost humidity levels, ensuring your peace lily remains lush and vibrant.

Advertisement
12

When and how to repot your peace lily

Share to Pinterestplant repotted
ganjalex / Shutterstock

Peace lilies, like all plants, grow and can eventually outgrow their pots. If you observe roots emerging from the drainage holes or the plant looking too big for its container, it's a sign to repot. Choose a new pot that's slightly larger than the current one, ensuring it has adequate drainage. Repotting provides the plant with fresh soil rich in nutrients and more space to grow. This process rejuvenates the peace lily, ensuring it continues to flourish and brighten your home with its elegance.

Advertisement
13

Benefits of using purified or rainwater

Share to Pinterestwatering plant
ganjalex / Shutterstock

While tap water is convenient, it often contains chemicals like chlorine, which can be harsh on peace lilies. If the tips of your peace lily's leaves turn brown, it might be a sign to reconsider your water source. Using filtered, purified, or rainwater can make a world of difference. These water sources are devoid of harmful chemicals, ensuring your peace lily remains healthy. By making this switch, you're providing a gentler, more natural water source, ensuring the longevity and vibrancy of your plant.

Advertisement
14

Fertilization guide for peace lilies

Share to Pinterestfertilizer
larisa Stefanjuk / Shutterstock

Peace lilies, though not overly demanding, can benefit from occasional fertilization. Using a balanced liquid fertilizer, especially during the growth months of spring and summer, can invigorate them. It's essential, however, to dilute the fertilizer to prevent over-nourishment, which can harm the plant. By providing this nutrient boost, you're ensuring that your peace lily has all it needs to grow robustly. Remember, moderation is key. A gentle, periodic feed can enhance growth, ensuring your peace lily remains a centerpiece in your home.

Advertisement
15

Leaf maintenance: wiping and hygiene

Share to Pinterestwiping peace lily
FotoHelin / Shutterstock

The broad, glossy leaves of peace lilies are one of their standout features. However, they can accumulate dust over time. Regularly wiping them down with a damp cloth not only ensures they remain shiny but also aids in their photosynthesis process. This simple maintenance routine can also help in the early detection of pests, ensuring your plant remains in its prime condition. By keeping the leaves clean, you're ensuring optimal health for your peace lily, allowing it to breathe better and continue to beautify your living space.

Advertisement
16

Correct lighting for peace lilies

Share to PinterestAir puryfing house plants in home concept. Spathiphyllum are commonly known as spath or peace lilies growing in pot in home room and cleaning indoor air.

Peace lilies bathe in the spotlight of bright, indirect sunlight, flourishing under its gentle warmth. Like a delicate balancing act, they thrive away from the harsh rays of direct sunlight yet disdain the gloom of dimly lit corners. An east-facing window, where the sun’s morning greetings are soft, serves as the perfect stage for these radiant beauties. There, they perform in all their glory, without the risk of the scorching spotlight.

Advertisement
17

Temperature considerations for peace lilies

Share to PinterestThermometer hygrometer measuring the optimum temperature and humidity in a house on windowsill with houseplants closeup

Imagine a warm, gentle breeze that never ends; that’s the kind of climate your peace lily yearns for. They cherish a steady temperature range between 18 to 26°C, a reminder of their tropical ancestry. Sudden chills or drafts are their nemesis, much like an unexpected cold snap that shocks the system. Ensuring your peace lily’s environment is free from the dramatic entrances and exits of temperature fluctuation will keep its spirit—and leaves—uplifted.

Advertisement
18

Pruning practices for healthier peace lilies

Share to PinterestCloseup of Female gardener hands pruning roots of white peace lily, spathiphyllum houseplant with scissors. Caring of home green plants indoors, spring waking up, home garden, gardening blog

Pruning, an act of care and attention, keeps your peace lily looking its best. Yellowing or brown leaves are gently snipped away, a necessary farewell to the old, making way for the new. This practice isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a health check, removing parts that could harbor pests or disease. With each careful cut, you’re telling your plant, “Grow, be free, be beautiful,” a mantra for verdant vitality.

Advertisement
19

The role of air circulation in peace lily health

Share to PinterestWoman taking care of peace lilies.

Ensuring your peace lily enjoys gentle, consistent air circulation mimics the natural breezes of its rainforest home, promoting a healthy environment free from stagnant air. Good airflow helps to prevent the onset of fungal diseases, which thrive in still, humid conditions. Position your plant in a spot where it can receive a soft, indirect flow of air, perhaps from a ceiling fan set on low or a nearby open window. However, beware of placing your peace lily directly in the path of strong winds or drafts, which can lead to rapid moisture loss and stress the plant. Balanced air circulation encourages not only the robust health of your peace lily but also contributes to the vitality of its lush foliage and radiant blooms.

Advertisement
20

The art of bottom watering

Share to Pinterestbottom watering a peace lily

Bottom watering, a technique often praised for its efficiency in encouraging roots to grow downwards, is like inviting your peace lily to sip gently from a nourishing well. This method allows the soil to absorb moisture evenly from the bottom up, ensuring that no root is left thirsty. However, alternating with top watering is key to preventing salt buildup in the soil. Once every few weeks, let water flow freely from the top to flush out any accumulated minerals, ensuring your peace lily remains in optimal health.

Advertisement

This article contains affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site at no additional cost to you.

Share

Scroll Down

for the Next Article

Advertisement
Advertisement