Growing peace lily plants in water is a simple and stylish way to enjoy this elegant plant without the mess of soil. Known for their glossy leaves and white blooms, peace lilies adapt surprisingly well to water-based setups.
But how do you start growing one in water – and what care does it need to thrive?
Let’s walk through the steps to keep your peace lily happy and healthy in a water-only environment.
Table of Contents
Easy Peace Lily Care Guide 💚
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💧 Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Peace Lilies like consistently moist soil but don’t tolerate sitting in standing water.
🌱 Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix with good moisture retention - I personally use this potting mix. A mix with peat, perlite, or coco coir, like this one, works well.
☀️ Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal for blooming, but Peace Lilies can also tolerate lower light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.
🌡️ Temperature: Keep your Peace Lily in a room between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Avoid drafts, cold temperatures, and sudden temperature changes.
🌿 Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (my top pick is this Miracle-Gro one) once a month during spring and summer. Pause fertilizing in fall and winter.
Can a Peace Lily Grow in Water?
Yes, Peace Lilies can grow in water. They adapt well to hydroponic environments and can thrive without soil. This method offers a low-maintenance way to enjoy these beautiful plants indoors.
To grow a Peace Lily in water, start with a clean glass container. Fill it with filtered or distilled water, leaving space for the roots.
Gently remove the plant from its soil, rinse the roots, and place it in the water. Make sure the leaves stay above the surface.
Change the water every 1-2 weeks to keep it fresh. Add liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season to provide necessary nutrients.
Keep the plant in bright, indirect light and maintain a temperature between 65-85°F (18-29°C).
Watch for root growth and adjust the water level as needed. You’ll see new leaves sprouting over time. If algae appears, clean the container and roots gently with a soft brush.
Water-grown Peace Lilies often have cleaner, whiter flowers compared to soil-grown plants. They’re also less prone to pest issues. However, they may grow slower than their soil counterparts.
Remember to trim any yellowing leaves or spent blooms to keep your Peace Lily looking its best. With proper care, your water-grown Peace Lily can flourish for years.
How to Grow Peace Lily in Water
To start a peace lily in water, begin with a healthy parent plant. Choose a stem with at least two leaves and cut it just below a node. Remove any lower leaves that would be submerged. Place the cutting in a clean glass container filled with room temperature water.
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Change the water weekly to prevent algae growth and bacterial buildup.
Position your cutting in bright, indirect light. Roots should begin to form within 2-4 weeks. Once roots are 2-3 inches long, you can transfer the plant to a larger container if desired.
Add liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks at quarter strength to support growth – this fertilizer is great for flowering plants grown in water, like your peace lily will be.
Transitioning from Soil to Water
Moving an established peace lily from soil to water requires careful handling. Gently remove the plant from its pot and rinse all soil from the roots. Trim any damaged or rotting roots with clean scissors.
Place the plant in a container with enough water to cover the roots. From there, monitor your peace lily closely during the transition.
It may show signs of stress like drooping leaves. This is normal as the plant adapts to its new environment.
Keep the water level consistent and change it weekly. Add liquid fertilizer after a month to replace nutrients the plant previously got from soil.
Water Requirements
Use clean, filtered water for your peace lily. Tap water can contain chemicals harmful to plants. Let tap water sit out overnight to allow chlorine to evaporate. Distilled or rainwater are excellent choices. Avoid using softened water, as it’s high in salts.
Add liquid fertilizer designed for aquatic plants every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
That said, you should dilute it to half strength to prevent nutrient burn. Stop fertilizing in winter when growth slows.
Changing and Maintaining Water Levels
Change the water completely every 1-2 weeks to prevent algae growth and stagnation. Top up water levels between changes as needed. Keep roots fully submerged, but don’t let water touch the base of the stems.
Clean the container with mild soap and rinse thoroughly when changing water. This removes any buildup of bacteria or algae. Use a soft brush to gently clean roots if they look slimy or discolored.
Temperature and pH Balance
Peace lilies prefer water temperatures between 68-75°F (20-24°C). Avoid sudden temperature changes, which can shock the plant. Room temperature water is usually fine.
Maintain a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Test pH levels monthly using aquarium test strips.
If needed, adjust pH with small amounts of baking soda to raise it or vinegar to lower it. However, be sure to make any changes gradually to avoid stressing your plant.
Best Containers for Growing Peace Lilies in Water
Clear glass vases are ideal for Peace Lilies grown in water. They allow you to easily monitor root health and water levels. Opt for a vase that’s at least 6 inches deep to accommodate the plant’s root system. Make sure the opening is wide enough to support the plant without crushing its leaves.
Cylindrical or flared vases work well, providing stability and room for growth. If you’re worried about algae growth, consider using an opaque or tinted glass container. Ceramic or porcelain containers can also be used, but you’ll need to check water levels more frequently.
Décor Ideas for Growing Peace Lilies in Water
Your container choice can significantly impact your peace lily’s impact on your home décor. For a modern look, try sleek, minimalist vases in clear glass or white ceramic. If you prefer a more rustic feel, mason jars or vintage pitchers can add charm.
Consider the color of your Peace Lily’s leaves when selecting a container. White or green vessels can create a subtle, harmonious look. For a bolder statement, pick containers in contrasting colors like blue or black.
Whichever way you go, remember to choose a size that’s proportionate to your plant – too small, and it might tip over; too large, and it could overwhelm the lily’s delicate appearance.
Best Fertilizer for Growing Peace Lilies in Water
Choose a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer made for hydroponic plants, like my preferred one here. This formula consists of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK), all of which are nutrients that support leaf growth, root development, and overall plant health.
Micronutrients are also crucial. Seek out fertilizers containing iron, manganese, and magnesium. These elements help with chlorophyll production and prevent leaf yellowing.
Feeding Schedule and Dosage
Feed your peace lily every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce frequency to once every 6-8 weeks in fall and winter when growth slows.
Start with half the recommended dosage on the fertilizer label. This helps prevent nutrient burn. Gradually increase to full strength if needed.
Mix the fertilizer with fresh water each time you feed. Don’t let fertilizer sit in the water for extended periods. This can lead to algae growth and nutrient imbalances.
Watch your plant for signs of over or under-fertilization, like the following:
- Yellowing leaves may indicate nutrient deficiency
- Brown leaf tips could mean too much fertilizer
Adjust your feeding schedule based on your plant’s response. Every peace lily is unique and may have different nutritional needs.
Best Light for Growing Peace Lilies in Water
Peace lilies do best with natural light from east or north-facing windows. These locations provide gentle morning sun or filtered light throughout the day. If you don’t have suitable windows, artificial lighting can work too. Use fluorescent bulbs or LED grow lights positioned 6-12 inches above the plant for 12-16 hours daily.
Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves, and always keep an eye on your peace lily’s response to its light conditions. Healthy plants have dark green leaves and stand upright.
However, if you notice yellowing or browning foliage, it’s a sign of too much light. Move your peace lily to a shadier spot or use sheer curtains to filter intense rays.
Alternatively, if the stems become leggy or leaves turn pale, your plant needs more light.
You can always use a light meter app on your smartphone to measure foot-candles. Peace lilies prefer 100-500 foot-candles. Adjust placement or artificial lighting as needed.
Remember, seasons affect natural light intensity and duration. You might need to move your plant closer to windows in winter and further away in summer.
Which Types of Peace Lilies Grow Well in Water?
The Spathiphyllum ‘Domino’ is a top choice for water cultivation. It features stunning white-speckled leaves and grows to about 2 feet tall. This variety adapts well to low-light conditions, making it perfect for indoor spaces.
Another great option is the Spathiphyllum ‘Mauna Loa Supreme’. It boasts large, glossy leaves and can reach up to 3 feet in height. This variety produces abundant white flowers, adding a touch of elegance to your home.
For smaller spaces, consider the compact Spathiphyllum ‘Petite’. It grows to just 12 inches tall, making it ideal for desks or small shelves. Despite its size, it still produces lovely white blooms.
The Spathiphyllum ‘Sensation’ is the largest peace lily variety, reaching up to 6 feet tall. It’s a showstopper with its massive leaves and impressive flowers. This variety works well in larger rooms or as a standalone statement piece.
Common Challenges and Care Tips
Peace lilies grown in water can face several issues. Monitoring for root rot, preventing algae growth, and managing pests are key to keeping your plant healthy. Regular care and attention will help you address these challenges effectively.
Detecting and Treating Root Rot
Root rot is a common problem for peace lilies grown in water. Check the roots weekly for signs of decay. Healthy roots are white or light tan, while rotting roots turn brown or black and feel mushy. If you spot rot, trim the affected parts with clean scissors.
After trimming, rinse the roots thoroughly and change the water. Add a few drops of hydrogen peroxide to the fresh water to help prevent further rot. This also boosts oxygen levels, which roots need to stay healthy.
If root rot is severe, you might need to propagate the healthy parts of the plant. Cut a section with healthy leaves and roots, and start it in fresh water.
Algae Growth Prevention
Algae can quickly become a nuisance in water-grown peace lilies. It thrives in sunlight and nutrient-rich water. To prevent algae, keep your plant’s container out of direct sunlight.
Change the water weekly to remove excess nutrients. Use opaque or dark-colored containers to block light from reaching the water. This makes it harder for algae to grow.
If you notice algae forming, clean the container thoroughly with a mild soap solution. Rinse well before refilling with fresh water.
You can also add a few drops of liquid houseplant fertilizer to the water to give your peace lily the nutrients it needs without encouraging algae growth.
Pest Control in Hydroponic Peace Lilies
Even water-grown peace lilies can attract pests. The most common are fungus gnats, which lay eggs in moist environments.
To control these pests, remove any dead leaves or debris from the water surface.
If you spot adult gnats, use sticky traps near the plant to catch them. For larvae in the water, add a small amount of food-grade diatomaceous earth to the surface. This natural substance will kill the larvae without harming your plant.
Spider mites and mealybugs can also infest peace lilies. Regularly inspect leaves for signs of these pests.
How to Get Rid of Pests on Your Houseplants
If you notice pests on your indoor plants, follow these steps to tackle the problem before it gets worse:
- Start with manual removal – For minor infestations, wipe leaves with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or rinse the plant under lukewarm water to remove pests by hand.
- Use neem oil or insecticidal soap – If pests persist, treat your plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap (those are my preferred ones!), both of which target common houseplant pests without harming your plant.
- Apply a houseplant-safe pesticide – For severe cases that don’t respond to other treatments, use a broad-spectrum pesticide designed for indoor plants to eliminate stubborn pests – I use this pesticide for tough infestations.
By acting quickly and using the right treatments, you can keep your houseplants pest-free and thriving!
Frequently Asked Questions
Growing Peace Lilies in water can raise some common questions. Let’s address a few key concerns about propagation, plant health, and maintenance.
How do you propagate a Peace Lily in water?
You can propagate a Peace Lily in water by dividing the plant. Start by gently removing the plant from its container and separating the roots. Choose a healthy section with leaves and roots attached. Rinse off any dirt and place the divided section in a clear container with fresh water.
Make sure the roots are submerged but keep the leaves above water. Place it in a spot with indirect light and change the water weekly.
Why might a Peace Lily start to wilt or die when grown in water?
Peace Lilies can wilt or die in water due to a few reasons. Lack of nutrients is a common cause – water alone doesn’t provide all the elements the plant needs. Too much direct sunlight can also stress the plant, leading to wilting.
Dirty or stagnant water can harbor harmful bacteria, causing root rot. Extreme temperatures, either too hot or too cold, can shock the plant and cause it to decline.
Should yellow leaves be trimmed from a Peace Lily living in a water environment?
Yes, you should trim yellow leaves from your water-grown Peace Lily. Yellow leaves won’t turn green again and can drain energy from the plant. Use clean, sharp scissors to cut the leaf off at the base where it meets the stem.
This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth. Be careful not to damage nearby healthy leaves or stems while trimming.
How often should the water be changed for a Peace Lily growing indoors in water?
You should change the water for your Peace Lily every 1-2 weeks. This prevents the buildup of algae and harmful bacteria. When changing the water, gently rinse the roots to remove any debris. Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant.
If you notice the water becoming cloudy before the weekly change, it’s best to replace it immediately.