Peace lily plant care is truly straightforward, which is why this elegant plant is a favorite in so many homes. Its glossy green leaves and striking white blooms can brighten up any space with minimal effort.
But how do you keep a peace lily thriving – and what should you watch for to avoid common issues with this plant?
Let’s go through all of the essentials to help your peace lily stay healthy and beautiful.
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.
Which soil and pot type does your peace lily like?
Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. The pot should be about 1-2 inches larger than the plant’s root ball. This gives room for growth without risking overwatering.
Use a well-draining potting mix designed for indoor plants – like my preferred one for peace lilies below.
Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix
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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
If you choose to make your own soil instead of buying one, a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well. Avoid heavy soils that retain too much water.
Repot your peace lily every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Spring is the best time for repotting. Gently loosen the roots and place in fresh soil at the same depth as before.
Feeding and nutrients
Peace lilies don’t need much fertilizer, but regular feeding helps them thrive. Proper nutrition boosts leaf growth and flower production.
Let’s take a look at the best fertilizers and schedules for your peace lily.
Best fertilizer for peace lilies
Pick a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer for your peace lily (like my favorite one below). Look for a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 NPK ratio on the label. These numbers represent nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium – key nutrients for healthy growth.
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food
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The best fertilizer for Peace Lilies, supporting bright, lush foliage and beautiful blooms. Feeds instantly to keep your plant looking its best
Organic options like fish emulsion or seaweed extract work well too, if you prefer to go down that route.
Avoid fertilizers high in salts, as they can burn the roots. If you’re using tap water, it might contain fluoride or chlorine. These can harm your peace lily over time.
To avoid issues with this, consider using filtered or distilled water when mixing fertilizer.
When to fertilize your peace lily
Feed your peace lily every 6-8 weeks during spring and summer. This is when the plant is actively growing. Cut back to once every 3 months in fall and winter, as the plant’s growth slows down during these cooler months.
Always dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength. Peace lilies are sensitive to over-fertilization. Too much can lead to brown leaf tips or edges.
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Make sure to Water your plant thoroughly before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn.
Skip fertilizing your peace lily for a month after repotting. The fresh soil usually contains enough nutrients.
Resume your regular schedule once the plant shows new growth. If you notice pale leaves or slow growth, it might be time for a feeding.
Watering your peace lily
Peace lilies are sensitive to their watering routine. They need consistent moisture but can’t tolerate soggy soil. Proper watering of your peace lily is key to keeping it healthy and thriving.
When to water peace lilies
Water your peace lily when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This usually means watering once or twice a week, depending on your home’s conditions. In winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant’s growth slows down.
Pour water slowly until it starts to drain from the bottom of the pot. Empty the saucer after 15 minutes to prevent the plant from sitting in water.
Always use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots. If you’re using tap water, let it sit out overnight to allow chlorine to evaporate.
Signs of overwatering and underwatering your peace lily
Overwatered peace lilies show yellowing leaves and a droopy appearance. The soil may smell musty, and you might spot mold on the surface. Root rot can set in if the problem isn’t addressed quickly.
Underwatered plants have brown, crispy leaf edges and dramatic wilting. The soil will feel dry and may pull away from the sides of the pot.
Peace lilies are resilient – they’ll perk up quickly after a good drink if caught early.
To avoid both issues, check your plant regularly. Stick your finger in the soil or lift the pot to gauge its weight.
With practice, you’ll learn to recognize when your peace lily needs water.
Repotting peace lilies
Peace lilies need repotting every 1-2 years to maintain their health and vigor. This process refreshes the soil, provides more space for root growth, and can boost the plant’s overall vitality.
Proper repotting techniques ensure your peace lily continues to thrive in its indoor environment.
When to repot your peace lily
Peace lilies typically need to be repotted every one to two years. You’ll know it’s time to repot your peace lily when you notice roots growing through the drainage holes or pushing up through the soil surface.
Another sign is if your plant dries out quickly after watering, indicating the roots have filled the pot. Also, if your peace lily’s growth has slowed or stopped, it might need more room to expand.
Watch for yellowing leaves or wilting that doesn’t improve after watering – these can be signs of a root-bound plant.
Lift the plant gently from its pot to check. If you see a dense network of roots with little soil visible, it’s time for a new home.
How to repot peace lilies
Repotting a peace lily is a fairly straightforward process:
- Start by choosing a new pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has drainage holes.
- Water your peace lily thoroughly a day before repotting to reduce stress.
- Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosening the roots if they’re tightly packed.
- Trim any damaged or rotting roots with clean, sharp scissors.
- Place fresh, well-draining potting mix in the new container.
- Position your peace lily in the center of the new pot, making sure it sits at the same depth as before. Fill in around the roots with more soil, pressing gently to eliminate air pockets.
- Water thoroughly after repotting and place the plant in a shaded spot for a few days to recover.
Light requirements
Peace lilies thrive in bright, indirect light but can adapt to lower light conditions. They’re sensitive to direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.
Finding the right balance of light for your peace lily is key to keeping your plant healthy and promoting vibrant growth.
Peace lily light needs
Peace lilies do best in bright, filtered light. Place them near north or east-facing windows for optimal growth. These spots provide enough light without the harsh rays that can damage the plant’s leaves (and can also mean your peace lily looks great for your home décor).
If you only have south or west-facing windows, use sheer curtains to diffuse the light.
In offices or rooms with fluorescent lighting, peace lilies can still grow well. They’re one of the few plants that can tolerate these conditions. Just make sure they’re not too far from the light source.
If your peace lily’s leaves start to yellow or droop, it might be getting too much light. Move it to a shadier spot.
On the flip side, if it’s not flowering, it may need more light.
Adjusting light based on seasons
During winter, when daylight hours are shorter, you may need to move your peace lily closer to a light source. Be careful not to place it directly on a cold windowsill, as this can shock the plant.
In summer, the increased intensity of sunlight means you might need to provide more shade. Watch for signs of sunburn on the leaves – brown spots or crispy edges are tell-tale signs. If your peace lily flowers are turning brown, this can also be a sign of a light issue.
If you’re using grow lights, adjust the duration based on the season. In winter, you can keep the lights on longer to compensate for shorter days. In summer, reduce the artificial light as natural daylight increases.
Remember to rotate your peace lily every few weeks. This ensures all sides of the plant get equal light exposure, promoting even growth.
Pruning and maintenance
Regular pruning and maintenance keep your Peace Lily looking its best. These simple tasks help the plant stay healthy and vibrant.
They also prevent issues like pest infestations and disease spread.
Trimming your peace lily’s brown or yellow leaves
Remove yellowing or browning leaves as soon as you spot them. Use clean, sharp scissors to cut the affected leaf off at the base of its stem. This improves the plant’s appearance and redirects energy to healthy growth.
Don’t worry if you need to remove several leaves – it’s normal for older foliage to die off. Trim any brown leaf tips by cutting them at an angle to match the leaf’s natural shape.
This prevents further browning and keeps your Peace Lily looking fresh.
Should you dust peace lilies?
Peace Lily leaves can collect dust, blocking light absorption and reducing photosynthesis. Clean the leaves every few weeks to keep them healthy and shiny. Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe both sides of each leaf.
For stubborn dust, mix a drop of mild dish soap with lukewarm water. Avoid using leaf shine products, as they can clog the plant’s pores.
After cleaning, rinse the leaves with plain water to remove any soap residue.
Regular dusting also helps you spot pest issues early. While cleaning, check for signs of insects or unusual spots on the leaves.
Environment and humidity
Peace lilies thrive in specific environmental conditions. They need the right balance of humidity and temperature to flourish. Proper care in these areas will keep your plant healthy and vibrant.
Ideal humidity levels for peace lilies
Peace lilies love humid environments. You can boost humidity by misting the leaves daily with room temperature water. Another option is to place a tray filled with pebbles and water near the plant.
As the water evaporates, it’ll increase the humidity around your peace lily.
You can also use a humidifier in the room. This is especially helpful during dry winter months.
Aim for humidity levels between 50-60%. If the air is too dry, you might notice brown leaf tips on your plant.
Grouping plants together can create a more humid microclimate. This mimics their natural tropical habitat.
Just make sure there’s enough space between plants for good air circulation.
Best temperature for peace lilies
Peace lilies prefer warm temperatures. Keep your plant in a spot where the temperature stays between 65-80°F (18-27°C). They can tolerate brief periods outside this range, but prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures will stress the plant.
Avoid placing your peace lily near drafty windows or air conditioning vents. Cold drafts can damage the leaves.
In winter, move the plant away from cold windows to protect it from chilly air.
During hot summer days, your peace lily might need more frequent watering. Check the soil moisture regularly and adjust your watering schedule as needed.
Remember, these plants are sensitive to temperature changes, so try to maintain a consistent environment.
Dealing with pests and diseases
Peace lilies are generally hardy plants, but they can face some pest and disease issues. Proper care and quick action can help keep your plant healthy and thriving.
Regular inspection and maintenance are key to preventing and managing these problems.
Common pests for peace lilies
Spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids are the most frequent pests that attack peace lilies. Spider mites leave tiny webs on leaves and cause yellow or brown spots. Mealybugs appear as small, cottony clusters on stems and leaves.
Aphids, on the other hand, are tiny green or black insects that cluster on new growth.
Scale insects may also infest peace lilies. They look like small, brown bumps on stems and leaves.
Fungus gnats can be a nuisance, especially if the soil is consistently too wet.
Regular inspection of your plant’s leaves, stems, and soil surface will help you spot these pests early.
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!
Preventative measures
Keep your peace lily clean and dust-free. Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth every few weeks. This removes dust and makes it harder for pests to settle.
Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil attracts pests and promotes fungal growth. Ensure good air circulation around your plant by not crowding it with other plants.
Use well-draining, sterile potting soil when repotting. Quarantine new plants for a few weeks before placing them near your peace lily.
Maintain proper humidity levels – around 50-60% is ideal. You can use a pebble tray or a humidifier to achieve this.
Flowering and propagation
Peace lilies produce elegant white blooms that add beauty to any indoor space. These flowers can appear throughout the year with proper care.
Propagating your peace lily allows you to expand your collection or share plants with friends.
How to get your peace lily to flower
To encourage your peace lily to flower, provide bright indirect light. A north or east-facing window is ideal. Maintain consistent moisture – water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Feed your plant monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during spring and summer. Keep temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) for optimal growth and blooming.
Avoid overwatering or letting the soil dry out completely, as both can prevent flowering. If your peace lily isn’t blooming, try moving it to a brighter spot.
Overall, the main tip I can share is to be patient – it may take time for new flowers to develop.
How to propagate peace lilies
Peace lilies are easy to propagate through division. Here’s how to do it:
- Water the plant thoroughly a day before dividing.
- Gently remove the plant from its pot.
- Shake off excess soil to expose the roots.
- Look for natural divisions or separate offshoots with roots.
- Carefully pull apart the sections or use clean, sharp scissors to separate them.
- Pot each division in fresh, well-draining potting mix.
- Water the new plants and place them in a warm, humid spot with indirect light.
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. New growth should appear within a few weeks. Avoid fertilizing for the first month to allow the roots to establish.
And, of course, you’ve also got the option of propagating them into and growing your peace lily in water!
Seasonal care adjustments
Peace lilies need different care as the seasons change. You’ll want to adjust watering, lighting, and fertilizing throughout the year. These tweaks help your plant thrive in changing conditions.
In spring and summer, water your peace lily more often. The warmer weather increases evaporation and plant growth. Check the soil every few days and water when the top inch feels dry.
Reduce watering in fall and winter. The plant’s growth slows down, so it needs less moisture. Allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilize your peace lily during its active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month. Stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.
Light needs stay fairly consistent year-round. Peace lilies prefer bright, indirect light. Move them away from windows in summer if the light becomes too intense.
Humidity is important for peace lilies. In winter, when indoor air gets dry, mist the leaves or use a pebble tray to increase moisture around the plant.
Watch for temperature changes. Keep your peace lily away from cold drafts in winter and hot air vents year-round. Ideal temperatures range from 65-80°F (18-27°C).
Prune your peace lily in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any yellow or brown leaves to keep the plant looking fresh.
FAQs
Peace lilies are popular indoor plants that can thrive with proper care. Let’s address some common questions about maintaining these beautiful houseplants.
How can I tell when my peace lily needs to be watered?
Peace lilies usually show clear signs when they need water. Look for drooping or wilting leaves – this is a key indicator. Check the soil’s moisture by sticking your finger about an inch deep. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Water your peace lily when the top inch of soil feels dry. Don’t wait until the plant is completely wilted. Overwatering can be just as harmful, so make sure the pot has good drainage.
What are the benefits of having a peace lily in my home?
Peace lilies can improve your indoor air quality. They’re known to filter out common household pollutants. These plants can help reduce stress and create a calming atmosphere in your living space.
Peace lilies are also low-maintenance and can thrive in low-light conditions. They’re great for beginners or busy plant owners. Their elegant white flowers can brighten up any room.
What should I do if my peace lily starts to show signs of distress?
First, check your watering habits. Yellowing leaves often mean overwatering, while brown tips can indicate underwatering. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Make sure your plant isn’t getting too much direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. If you see pests, wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or use a mild insecticidal soap.
Are there any disadvantages to keeping a peace lily indoors?
Peace lilies can be toxic if ingested. Keep them out of reach of pets and children. Some people might be sensitive to the pollen when the plant is flowering.
These plants prefer high humidity, which can be challenging in some homes. You might need to mist them regularly or use a humidity tray. They can also be prone to spider mites in dry conditions.
What are the best practices for peace lily care for beginners?
Water your peace lily when the top inch of soil feels dry. Place it in a spot with indirect light – they can tolerate low light but won’t thrive in complete darkness.
Clean the leaves occasionally to keep them dust-free and shiny. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its container.
Where is the ideal location to place a peace lily in my home?
Place your peace lily in a spot with indirect light. They do well in north or east-facing windows. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Peace lilies prefer warm temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Keep them away from cold drafts and air conditioning vents.
Bathrooms or kitchens can be great locations for this plant due to the higher humidity in these areas.