How to Care for Peace Lily Plants (Spathiphyllum)

Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) are popular indoor plants known for their elegant white flowers and glossy green leaves. Here are some essential tips to help you take care of your peace lily and keep it thriving:

Light: Peace lilies prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as it can scorch their leaves. A location near a north-facing window or several feet away from an east- or west-facing window is ideal.

Temperature: These plants thrive in temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Keep them away from cold drafts and extreme temperature fluctuations.

Watering: Peace lilies like consistently moist soil but can be sensitive to overwatering. Water the plant when the top inch (2.5 cm) of the soil feels dry to the touch. It’s essential not to let the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot. Allow any excess water to drain from the pot.

Humidity: Peace lilies prefer high humidity levels. If the air in your home is dry, consider using a humidity tray or placing the pot on a pebble-filled tray with water to increase the humidity around the plant.

Fertilizing: Feed your peace lily with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period in fall and winter.

Pruning: Trim yellow or brown leaves at their base to maintain the plant’s appearance and redirect energy to healthy growth. Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms.

Repotting: Peace lilies prefer slightly crowded root conditions, so they don’t need frequent repotting. Repot only when the plant has outgrown its current container, typically every 1-2 years. Use a well-draining potting mix.

Pest control: Peace lilies are generally resistant to pests, but occasionally, they may attract spider mites or mealybugs. If you notice any pests, treat the plant with an appropriate insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Toxicity: Keep peace lilies away from pets and small children, as they contain calcium oxalate crystals that can be toxic if ingested. If ingested, they may cause irritation and swelling of the mouth and throat.

Dormancy: Peace lilies may naturally go through a period of dormancy during fall and winter when their growth slows down. During this time, reduce watering and avoid fertilizing until new growth resumes in the spring.