Watering your peace lily properly is essential to keeping it healthy and thriving. While these plants are relatively low-maintenance, getting the watering right can make all the difference in their growth and those beautiful white blooms.
So how often should you water – and how can you avoid common mistakes like overwatering?
Let’s break down everything you need to know about watering your peace lily the right way.
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.
When to Water Peace Lilies
Peace lilies prefer slightly moist soil. Check the top inch of soil by inserting your finger – if it’s dry, it’s time to water, which will typically be every 5-7 days. Drooping leaves are another clear sign your plant needs a drink.
Factors affecting water needs include:
- Pot size
- Incorrect light exposure for your peace lily
- Temperature
- Humidity
- Season
Watch for drooping leaves, which often indicate thirst. Don’t wait until the plant wilts completely, as this can stress it. During winter, reduce watering frequency as growth slows down.
Remember, it’s better to underwater slightly than overwater. If unsure, wait an extra day before watering.
Your peace lily will bounce back quickly from mild underwatering but may suffer from root rot if overwatered.
Effects of Overwatering and Underwatering
Overwatering is a common mistake with peace lilies. It can cause:
- Yellow leaves
- Soft, mushy stems
- Fungal growth on soil
- Root rot
Underwatering leads to:
- Wilting
- Crispy, brown leaf edges
- Slow growth
- Leaf drop
Both extremes stress the plant and make it more susceptible to pests and diseases. Consistent, appropriate watering is crucial for a thriving peace lily.
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!
How to Water Peace Lilies
Proper preparation is key to keeping your peace lily healthy and thriving. In particular, you’ll need to consider the type of water you use and its temperature.
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1. Choose the Right Water
Tap water isn’t always the best choice for your peace lily. It often contains chemicals like chlorine and fluoride that can harm your plant. Instead, opt for filtered or distilled water. Rainwater is another excellent option if you can collect it.
If you must use tap water, let it sit out overnight. This allows chlorine to evaporate, making it safer for your plant.
Avoid using softened water, as it’s high in salts that can build up in the soil over time.
2. Check Water Temperature
The temperature of the water you use matters more than you might think. Room temperature water is ideal for peace lilies. Cold water can shock the roots and slow growth, while hot water can damage the delicate root system.
In winter, let tap water warm up to room temperature before watering. In summer, you might need to cool the water slightly if your home is very warm.
Aim for water that feels neither hot nor cold to the touch – just comfortably lukewarm.
3. Water at the Base
Water your peace lily directly at the soil level to avoid wetting the leaves. Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water onto the soil surface. Slowly pour water around the base of the plant until it begins to drain from the bottom holes.
If you’re using a saucer, empty it after 15 minutes to prevent root rot. For larger plants, you can place them in a sink or bathtub for thorough watering. This method allows excess water to drain freely.
Consider bottom watering as an alternative. Place the pot in a container with 2-3 inches of water for about 30 minutes.
This technique encourages roots to grow downward and helps prevent overwatering.
Humidity Considerations
Peace Lilies thrive in humid environments. You can boost humidity by misting the leaves regularly or placing a pebble tray filled with water beneath the pot. Aim for humidity levels between 50-60% for best results.
Grouping plants together can create a microclimate with higher humidity. If your home is particularly dry, consider using a humidifier near your Peace Lily.
This will help prevent leaf tips from browning and enhance overall water absorption.
Avoid placing your plant near heating vents or air conditioners, as these can quickly dry out the air and soil. Instead, find a spot with consistent humidity and temperature.
Impact of Seasonal Changes
Seasonal shifts affect your Peace Lily’s watering needs. In spring and summer, when growth is most active, you’ll need to water more frequently. The plant uses more water during these warmer months to support new leaves and flowers.
During fall and winter, growth slows down, so reduce watering. Check the soil moisture before watering – it should feel slightly dry on top. Overwatering in cooler months can lead to root rot.
Adjust your watering schedule based on indoor temperature changes. If you use heating in winter, your Peace Lily might need more frequent watering due to increased evaporation.
Keep an eye on leaf drooping as a sign of thirst, regardless of the season.
Post-Watering Care
After watering your peace lily, it’s crucial to monitor its condition. Proper drainage and foliage health are key factors in ensuring your plant thrives.
These steps will help you maintain a happy, healthy peace lily.
Drainage Strategy
Check the saucer or pot tray 30 minutes after watering. Empty any excess water to prevent root rot. If you notice water pooling frequently, consider repotting your peace lily in a container with better drainage holes.
Use a well-draining potting mix to help excess water escape. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and bark works well. This mixture allows roots to breathe and prevents waterlogging.
Elevate your pot slightly using pot feet or pebbles. This simple trick improves air circulation and helps water drain more effectively.
Assessing Foliage Health
Examine your peace lily’s leaves regularly after watering. Look for any yellowing or browning – these can be signs of overwatering or underwatering. Healthy leaves should be a rich, dark green color.
Feel the leaves’ texture. They should be firm and slightly glossy. Drooping or wilting leaves might indicate watering issues or temperature stress.
Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust. This helps the plant breathe better and photosynthesize more efficiently. It’s also a great opportunity to spot any pests or diseases early.
Trim any dead or yellowing leaves using clean, sharp scissors. This encourages new growth and keeps your peace lily looking its best.
Common Issues
Peace lilies can experience a few common problems that affect their health and appearance.
These issues often stem from improper care for your peace lily or environmental factors. Addressing them promptly can help your plant thrive.
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves on your peace lily can be caused by several factors. Overwatering is a frequent culprit – soggy soil can lead to root rot and nutrient deficiencies.
As a good tip for caring for your peace lily, always check the soil moisture before watering and allow it to dry out slightly between waterings.
Too much direct sunlight can also cause leaf yellowing. Move your plant to a spot with bright, indirect light.
Older leaves naturally yellow and die off, so don’t worry if it’s just a few lower leaves.
Nutrient deficiencies may cause yellowing too. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer on your peace lily every 6-8 weeks during the growing season.
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
If you’ve recently repotted your peace lily, yellowing might be temporary as the plant adjusts to its new environment.
Leaf Droop and Curl
Drooping or curling leaves often indicate a watering issue. Underwatering is the most common cause – your peace lily’s leaves will droop when it’s thirsty. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Overwatering can also cause drooping, as waterlogged roots can’t absorb water effectively. Ensure your pot has drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering.
If the soil stays wet for days, consider repotting in a well-draining mix – my favorite one for peace lilies is 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
Temperature stress can lead to leaf curl. Keep your peace lily away from cold drafts and heat sources.
Ideal temperatures range from 65-80°F (18-27°C). Low humidity can also cause leaf edges to curl.
Mist the leaves or use a pebble tray to increase humidity around your plant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Peace lilies have specific watering needs that can vary depending on environmental factors and the plant’s growth stage. Understanding these requirements helps ensure a healthy, thriving plant.
How frequently should a peace lily be watered during the winter months?
You should water your peace lily less often during winter. Once every 10-14 days is usually sufficient. Check the soil moisture before watering – it should be dry about 1-2 inches below the surface.
Reduce watering frequency if your home is cooler or has lower light levels in winter. Keep an eye on your plant’s leaves for signs of under-watering, like drooping or yellowing.
What are the signs of an overwatered peace lily?
Overwatered peace lilies show several distinct symptoms. You’ll notice yellow or brown leaves, often starting from the bottom of the plant. The soil may smell musty or have mold growing on the surface.
Stems can become soft and mushy near the base. Leaf edges might turn brown and crispy.
If you see these signs, cut back on watering and ensure proper drainage. Allow the soil to dry out more between waterings to prevent root rot.
Is misting the leaves beneficial for a peace lily’s well-being?
Misting can be helpful for your peace lily, but it’s not essential. It can increase humidity around the plant, which peace lilies enjoy. Mist the leaves lightly once or twice a week, especially if your home is dry.
Be careful not to overdo it – excess moisture on leaves can lead to fungal issues. Instead of misting, you can also use a pebble tray or humidifier to boost humidity levels around your plant.