These tips on caring for your peace lily can help you keep this elegant plant thriving in your home. With its striking white blooms and lush green leaves, the peace lily is both beautiful and low-maintenance.
But what does it need to stay healthy indoors – and how can you avoid common care mistakes?
Let’s explore the key tricks to ensure your peace lily looks its best year-round.
Table of Contents
Easy Peace Lily Care Guide 💚
⭐ Want one? Get your very own Peace Lily here!
💧 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.
1. Watering schedule
Peace lilies need consistent moisture but don’t like soggy soil. Water your peace lily when the top inch of soil feels dry. This usually means watering once or twice a week, depending on your home’s conditions.
In winter, you’ll likely water less often as growth slows down. Pay attention to your plant’s leaves – drooping is a sign it needs water. Don’t let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Make sure your pot has drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering. Using room temperature water is best for your peace lily.
2. Monthly fertilization
Peace lilies benefit from regular fertilization during their growing season. You’ll want to feed your plant monthly from spring through fall.
Use a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength, like my preferred one below. This provides essential nutrients without overwhelming the plant.
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The best fertilizer for Peace Lilies, supporting bright, lush foliage and beautiful blooms. Feeds instantly to keep your plant looking its best
Apply the fertilizer right after watering to prevent root burn. Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows down. If you notice leaf tips turning brown, you may be over-fertilizing – cut back on frequency or concentration.
Remember, it’s better to under-fertilize than over-fertilize peace lilies. They can thrive with minimal feeding, so don’t stress if you miss a month here and there.
Just aim for consistency during the active growing months to keep your plant healthy and vibrant.
3. Indirect sunlight placement
Peace lilies thrive in indirect sunlight. Place your plant near a north-facing window or a few feet away from east or west-facing windows. This positioning mimics their natural habitat on the forest floor, where they receive filtered light.
Avoid direct sun exposure, as it can scorch the leaves and cause browning. If you notice your peace lily’s leaves turning yellow, it might be getting too much light. In this case, move it to a slightly shadier spot.
You can also use sheer curtains to diffuse strong sunlight. This allows you to keep your plant near brighter windows without risking leaf damage.
Consider yourself a houseplant pro? Take this quiz and prove it!
Remember, peace lilies are adaptable and can grow in low-light conditions, but they’ll bloom more with moderate, indirect light.
4. Use well-draining soil
Peace lilies need soil that allows excess water to flow through easily. This is why you need a well-draining potting mix for your peace lily, like my preferred one below.
Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The best soil for Peace Lilies, providing the right balance of moisture retention and aeration. Made with perlite, sphagnum, and peat moss to support healthy roots while reducing the risk of gnats
While a pre-made mix like this one is going to be easiest, you can always make your own blend at home. If you’re using regular potting soil, add some perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Aim for a ratio of about 2 parts potting soil to 1 part perlite.
Check the soil’s moisture level before watering. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil – if it feels dry, it’s time to water.
With well-draining soil, you’ll avoid overwatering issues that can lead to root rot.
5. Use distilled water
Peace lilies prefer distilled water for optimal health. Using tap water can lead to mineral buildup in the soil, potentially harming your plant. Distilled water is free from chemicals and impurities that might damage your peace lily’s delicate leaves.
Switch to distilled water if you notice brown leaf tips on your plant. This common issue often stems from fluoride or other additives in tap water. You can also collect rainwater as a natural, cost-effective alternative to distilled water.
Remember to water your peace lily only when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can be just as harmful as using the wrong type of water.
With the right watering habits and clean water, you’ll keep your peace lily thriving for years to come.
6. Check for pests
Peace lilies can attract common houseplant pests. Look for tiny insects or webs on the leaves and stems. Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects are the most frequent culprits.
Inspect your plant weekly, paying close attention to leaf undersides and crevices.
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!
Healthy plants are less likely to get pests, so keep your peace lily thriving. Good air circulation and proper watering habits will help prevent pest problems.
Remember, early detection is key to keeping your peace lily pest-free and beautiful.
7. Avoid overwatering
Peace lilies don’t like soggy soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues. It’s better to underwater than overwater these plants. Check the top inch of soil before watering. If it’s still moist, wait a day or two before checking again.
Water your peace lily when the soil feels dry to the touch. During winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant’s growth slows down.
Make sure your pot has drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom. Empty any excess water from the saucer after watering to avoid waterlogged roots.
8. Wipe leaves regularly
Peace lilies need clean leaves to thrive. Dust and grime can block sunlight and hinder photosynthesis. Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks to keep them sparkling.
This simple task helps your plant breathe and absorb light better. It also prevents pest infestations that love hiding in dusty foliage. You’ll notice your peace lily looking healthier and more vibrant after a good leaf cleaning.
Remember to support the leaves as you wipe to avoid damaging them. Use lukewarm water and be extra gentle with new growth. Your peace lily will thank you for the spa treatment with lush, glossy foliage.
9. Repot every two years
Peace lilies benefit from repotting every two years. This process refreshes the soil and gives the roots more space to grow. You’ll know it’s time when you see roots poking out of the drainage holes or the plant seems too big for its pot.
Choose a container that’s 1-2 inches larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix designed for indoor plants. Gently remove the peace lily from its old pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new container.
Fill in around the roots with fresh soil. Water thoroughly after repotting and keep the plant in a shaded spot for a few days. This allows it to adjust to its new home without stress.
10. Humidity boost with misting
Peace lilies love humid environments. Misting your plant’s leaves can help increase moisture levels around it. Fill a spray bottle with room temperature water and gently mist the leaves every few days.
This technique is especially useful during dry winter months or in air-conditioned rooms. Don’t overdo it though – too much moisture can lead to fungal issues. Aim to mist in the morning so the leaves have time to dry before nightfall.
You can also place a humidity tray near your peace lily. Fill a shallow tray with pebbles and water, then set the plant pot on top. As the water evaporates, it’ll create a humid microclimate around your plant.
11. Trim yellowing leaves
Yellowing leaves on your peace lily can be unsightly and signal potential issues. You should remove these promptly to maintain the plant’s health and appearance. Trimming off discolored foliage helps redirect energy to healthy growth.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut yellowed leaves at the base where they meet the stem. Make sure to sterilize your tools before and after to prevent disease spread. Don’t worry if you need to remove several leaves – your peace lily will bounce back.
Regular pruning encourages new growth and keeps your plant looking fresh. It’s best to check for yellowing leaves weekly during your normal care routine.
Remember, some leaf yellowing is natural as older foliage dies off, but excessive yellowing may indicate other problems like overwatering or nutrient deficiencies.
12. Rotate plant for even growth
Peace lilies grow towards light sources. You’ll notice your plant leaning if it’s not rotated regularly. Turn your peace lily a quarter turn every week to promote balanced growth. This simple habit ensures all sides of the plant receive equal light exposure.
Rotating your peace lily prevents lopsided growth and keeps it looking full and lush. It’s especially important if your plant is near a window or other strong light source.
Basically, as a general rule, don’t forget to rotate – it only takes a few seconds but makes a big difference in your plant’s appearance.
13. Avoid drafts
Peace lilies don’t like cold air blowing on them. Keep your plant away from windows, doors, and air conditioning vents. Drafts can cause leaf damage and stress the plant.
Place your peace lily in a spot with stable temperatures. This will help it thrive and maintain its lush appearance. If you notice brown leaf tips or edges, your plant might be getting hit by cool air.
Moving your peace lily to a protected area can solve draft issues. Consider using a decorative screen or relocating it to an interior room. Your plant will thank you with healthier growth and more vibrant foliage.
14. Keep away from pets
Peace lilies are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. You’ll want to place your plant out of reach of curious pets.
Consider putting it on a high shelf or in a room your furry friends can’t access. If your pet does eat part of the plant, contact your vet right away.
Symptoms of peace lily toxicity in pets can include drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. The calcium oxalate crystals in the plant cause these issues. While rarely fatal, it’s still best to prevent any exposure.
There are pet-safe alternatives if you want greenery your animals can be around safely. Spider plants, Boston ferns, and parlor palms are all non-toxic options to brighten up your home.
15. Use room temperature water
Peace lilies prefer water that’s not too hot or cold. Room temperature water is ideal for watering your plant. It won’t shock the roots or cause stress to the plant’s system.
Fill a watering can and let it sit out for a bit before using. This allows any chlorine to evaporate and brings the water to room temperature. You can also use filtered or rainwater if available.
Avoid using ice cold water straight from the tap. It can damage the roots and slow growth. Hot water isn’t good either – it can scald the plant.
Sticking to room temperature ensures your peace lily stays happy and healthy.
16. Ensure pot drainage
Peace lilies need well-draining pots to thrive. Without proper drainage, their roots can sit in water and rot. Choose a pot with drainage holes at the bottom to let excess water escape.
You can add a layer of pebbles or broken pottery pieces at the bottom of the pot for extra drainage.
Use a well-draining potting mix designed for indoor plants. This will help prevent water from pooling around the roots. If your pot doesn’t have drainage holes, consider repotting your peace lily into one that does.
Good drainage is key to keeping your plant healthy and avoiding common issues like root rot.
17. Inspect roots if growth stalls
Your peace lily’s roots can tell you a lot about its health. If your plant isn’t growing as expected, take a look at what’s happening below the soil.
Gently remove the plant from its pot and check the roots. Healthy roots should be firm and white or light tan.
If you see dark, mushy roots, your plant may have root rot. This often happens due to overwatering or poor drainage.
Trim off any damaged roots with clean scissors. Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil and adjust your watering habits.
Roots that are tightly wound around the soil ball indicate the plant is rootbound. In this case, it’s time to move your peace lily to a slightly larger pot. Loosen the roots before replanting to encourage new growth.