How to Care for Peace Lily Indoors?

Spathiphyllum, commonly known as “Peace Lily”, is a perennial plant of the Araceae family and is native to the forests of Central and South America and grows outdoors in the United States and is considered a houseplant in other places. Continue reading this article in TooPlant in order to learn more about how to grow and care for Peace Lily Indoors.

Introduction of Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Before addressing how to care for a peace lily plant indoors, please allow us to give you a brief introduction about this houseplant.

Spathiphyllum has sharp, green leaves that purify the air and eliminate toxins in the home, including formaldehyde and ammonia. It is a plant that is easy to care for, and is adapted to low light.

In this article, we want to provide you with information about how to care for Peace Lily plant, so stay tuned with Tooplant.

Care for Peace Lily Plant

In this part, we will focus on the most important aspects which you need to take into consideration while treating this houseplant. To find answer to the question “how to look after peace lily?” read the following part:

Peace Lily Light Requirements: What light is best for Peace Lily?

Light is among the first important issues to care for Peace Lily. Spathiphyllum flowers can tolerate low light and adapt to it, but without window light or lamps, they will face the problem of lack of flowering or lack of flowers. These plants can tolerate any deficiency except direct light which is unbearable for them and most of their flowering depends on the indirect light that shines on them. Excessive yellowing of the leaves of this plant can be due to a lack of light.

So, as shown above, light plays a significant role to care for Peace Lily plant.

Peace Lily Watering: How often should you water a Peace Lily?

In the rest, concerning the tips of caring for a Peace Lily, it is better to know that ideally, this plant prefers moist (not wet) soil, and it is better to water when the soil is dry, but never allow the plant to remain permanently in wet soil and do not allow the plant to wither from dehydration (Spathiphyllum is a plant that heals itself quickly and saves from wilting). Therefore, watering is another important aspect in order to care for Peace Lily.

Excess water from the plant after watering must be removed from the soil, otherwise, it will cause the roots of the plant to rot. The leaves of Peace Lily turn brown due to underwatering or overwatering, so it is better to change the watering schedule of the plant.

This plant can tolerate a lack of watering but prefers regular watering. Take a bath every once in a while and rinse the leaves under a shower to remove dust that has accumulated on the leaves and breathe better.

In this way, to care for Peace Lily, watering is considered to be of great significance.

Peace Lily Soil: What is the best soil for a Peace Lily?

Intending to care for Peace Lily, the other crucial matter is soil. Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily) needs well-drained soil, and a combination of peat moss, leaf soil and perlite is a good choice. The reason for the wilting of the leaves of this plant is the lack of soil nutrients that are provided by fertilization.

Thus, it can be said that, soil is another basic and important issue so as to care for Peace Lily Indoors.

Peace Lily Temperature Tolerance

Now, we come to temperature which is assumed to be principal to care for Peace Lily in addition to light, watering and soil that are mentioned above. The usual temperature at home and a little warmer is suitable for the better growth of this plant. Places that suddenly become hot and cold are not pleasant for this plant.

In general, it prefers temperatures between 12 and 23 degrees. If the air temperature rises, it causes the leaves to twist and burn and it is sensitive to cold and can not tolerate cold weather.

Therefore, please do not forget to take temperature into consideration in order to care for Peace Lily in the best way.

Peace Lily Humidity: Does peace lily like humidity?

Moisture is another thing which we need to inevitably pay attention to when talking about how to take care of peace lily plants. This plant enjoys a warm and humid environment. In fact, in order to be able to provide the moisture it needs in the closed space of the apartment, you should put it in a tray of water and gravel. Choose a large tray, cover it with pebbles. Then pour enough water in it to cover half of the stones. Then place the pot on the pebbles, so that it has no direct contact with the water. If you don’t do this, the peace lily plant is still fresh, but if you put it next to cooling/heating devices, it can’t be safe from danger. In this case, you will see the damage done to the plant with the appearance of brown parts at the tip of the leaf.

Therefore, please do not forget to take humidity into consideration in order to care for peace lily plant in the best way.

Peace Lily Fertilizer: What is the best fertilizer for a Peace Lily?

When you want to care for Peace Lily, one of the important questions that may come to your mind is “what is the best fertilizer?” In what follows, we will address how to fertilize this plant:

Peace Lily does not require heavy fertilization. Fertilization should be done in the form of half a recipe, once a month at the time of flowering and plant growth (spring and summer), and fertilizer that contains magnesium and iron is suitable for it. Of course, know that excessive fertilization causes the tips of the leaves of the plant to turn brown, and remember not to fertilize the plant in winter.

As a result, we could say that fertilizer is regarded as one of the fundamental issues when someone wants to care for Peace Lily.

Peace Lily Toxicity: Is Peace Lily poisonous to humans and pets?

In order to care for Peace Lily, toxicity is considered to be a major issue because it directly relates to your health especially children and pets. Note that all parts of this plant are poisonous if consumed and eaten. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, peace lily is poisonous to dogs and cats. To find answer to the question “is peace lily toxic to dogs and cats?” we must say that peace lily is highly toxic and deadly to dogs and cats. Therefore, you need to be careful and keep it out of reach of dogs and cats.

Peace Lily Pruning: How to prune Peace Lily?

Another thing to keep in mind when caring for a Peace Lily is pruning it. You can keep the plant tidy and beautiful by pruning it in a timely manner. Cutting flowers is one of these methods. Peace Lily indoor plant forms its flowers on stems that originate directly from the main body of the plant. If one stem blooms, it can no longer produce another.

After the flower disappears, the stem will eventually turn brown and disappear. For this reason, pruning this plant should be done from the base. Separate the stem from the lowest possible section. This provides ample space for new shoots to emerge.

Pruning Peace Lily is not limited to flowering stems. Sometimes the leaves turn yellow/brown. Whenever you see a change in the color of the leaves, you have to start and separate them from the base.

When you want to care for Peace Lily, another important question that may come to your mind is “how to repot it.” Peace Lily flowers better in pots that are exactly the same size and are somewhat narrower, and change the pot when you have watered the plant enough and the space is very small. When replacing the pot, be sure to remove the blackened and damaged roots, and after replacing the pot, be sure to pay attention to watering it.

Common Pests and Diseases

To answer the question “how to look after peace lily?” we must say that peace lily, like any other plant, can be exposed to disease or pests.

Common Pests:

1. Attack of aphids and mealybugs

The female aphid does not eat alone. It produces about 3 to 6 pregnant aphids a day, and each of them will continue to reproduce for the next few days. These aphids form colonies on the back of the leaves.

The mealybugs live behind the leaves and along the leaf veins that have come out of the soil. They are like cotton and fluffy, they drain the sap-like aphids.

Both mealybugs and aphids produce a viscous substance that attracts ants and spores, producing black fungi.

To eradicate mealybugs and aphids, place the pot in a bag and do not allow water to enter the soil. Take the plant under a shower and wash its leaves with water pressure or spray.

It is also possible to kill these mealybugs and aphids by rubbing alcohol on the leaves of the aphid. Another way to get rid of it is to use organic soaps, which can be sprayed on the leaves and back of aphid leaves.

Repeat this once a week or until the aphid problem is gone. Be sure to use a mask and gloves for your health.

2. Spider mites

Spider mites feed on plant sap. The annular and twisted leaves, which are composed of a fine cloth-like covering, indicate a spider mite. Spider mites are very similar to white dust. Water and soap sprays that kill aphids and mealybugs are also effective in killing this mite.

3. Black mosquitoes

Black mosquitoes that fly around Peace Lily are fungi. This type of mosquito is distinguished from its tentacles and long legs, which are produced from eggs that are on the ground. Although they are safe during puberty, they feed on the roots and leaves of the plant.

The eggs of this type of mosquito are very interested in humid and mossy environments. To prevent the formation of these eggs and reduce it, let the potting soil dry by 2 cm between 2 waterings.

If dry soil does not kill these insects, you can use a ready-made spray to kill these insects, which is repeated every 2 days on the soil and leaves of the plant to completely eliminate these annoying insects. When using this spray, be sure to use a mask and goggles, and after using the spray, wash your hands thoroughly with soapy water.

If these pests are placed on dry soil, they will disappear after 4 days, and sometimes stir the soil of the pot so that the air enters the soil of the pot and also the underlying layers of the soil dry.

Caring for Peace Lily: Common Problems With Peace Lily

After a description of taking care of a Peace Lily, we will explain the problems and their solutions:

Why Are Peace Lily Leaves Turning Yellow?

Peace Lily is one of the plants that is recommended for people with little experience in plant maintenance. For this reason, it is not at all pleasant to see yellow leaves on this plant. Now investigate the main causes of peace lily turning yellow and solve the problem of your plant:

1. Leaf aging- a natural cause of yellowing

Let us dedicate the first reason to a normal and worry-free cause. The old leaves turn yellow naturally and eventually dry out and fall off. You can remove them from the plant as soon as they turn yellow, so rest assured that this is not a problem for the plant. Cut the leaves from the junction with the stem with clean scissors.

2. Overwatering is the most common cause of Peace Lily leaves turning yellow

Overwatering is the most likely cause of Spathiphyllum leaves turning yellow. In general, this problem is one of the main problems in the maintenance of houseplants. But overwatering the plant alone may not be the cause, and using a pot without adequate drainage or poorly drained soil can exacerbate the problem.

In all these cases, the root is placed in water, not enough oxygen reaches it, and eventually rots. The best solution is prevention. Water the plant only when it needs it. Therefore, watering on pre-determined days can cause major problems for the plant.

If necessary, replant the plant in lighter soil, which retains moisture while allowing water to pass through. Soils containing natural compounds and fibers are the best choice. Make sure there are enough drainage holes under the pot so that water never collects there. If you have this problem, let the roots dry completely before re-watering. This will prevent the plant from getting fungus and rot. Do not forget that Spathiphyllum likes moist soil, but wait until the upper half of the soil is dry and then water it.

3. Underwatering

As we mentioned, Peace Lily is one of the best plants for beginners, because it shows its needs well and withers whenever it needs water! Seeing this tropical plant in a confused and tired state can be alarming. But fortunately, after receiving enough water, it will quickly refresh and become a succulent plant.

As long as you do not keep the Spathiphyllum flower thirsty for a long time, it will not be a problem. Although dehydration is not good for it, wilting and yellowing caused by dehydration will not be a concern.

The problem is that keeping the plant thirsty regularly, and not paying attention to it in this case, will cause the leaves to turn yellow.

The treatment is to improve the watering process. If the plant receives more light or spends the summer outdoors, it will need more watering. If you can not help it, do not worry. Peace Lily is very kind: just remove the damaged leaves from the plant and this time, water more regularly.

4. Water quality

Although Peace Lily is not a hardy plant, it is particularly sensitive to chlorine. This problem can cause the leaves to turn yellow, especially if your tap water is high in salts.

We recommend this method for watering all houseplants: Let the water stay in an open container overnight. This causes chlorine gas to escape, so it will not burn the roots. If using tap water is a concern for you, you can substitute rainwater, purified water or distilled water.

5. Improper lighting

One of the reasons for the popularity of Peace Lily indoor plant is its adaptation to different lighting conditions. Their place in nature is the darker part of the forests. So this plant is shade-loving. Peace Lily is one of the few plants that grows well in dark corners.

But, they definitely need some light. Photosynthesis is a process that preserves leafy greens. If not enough light reaches the leaves, this process stops and eventually the leaves turn yellow or pale. Of course, except in very acute conditions, the only real effect of darkness on this plant is to reduce the number of flowers, the leaves remain green and fresh.

A common problem occurs when the light intensifies. The leaves of Peace Lily turn yellow when exposed to very intense light. Direct sunlight also burns them and creates brown spots on the leaf surface. All these problems can be solved by filtering the light or moving the plant to a darker place. (Curtain is a great filter for light).

6. Improper temperature

Peace Lily flower is resistant only in the temperature range of 18 to 24 °C. Therefore, the best conditions for its growth are being with us and living indoors. If the leaves of the plant turn yellow due to very low / high temperatures, you will probably find out the reason quickly.

They hate cooling devices and strong cold wind currents. Placing them in a cold hallway, porch or balcony will quickly cause the leaves to turn yellow and it is not possible for Spathiphyllum to tolerate temperatures below 7 degrees. The solution is to move the plant to a place with a moderate temperature (the same range mentioned), and free of any cooling devices.

7. Lack of nutrient resources

Although this plant does not need much fertilizer, but to have healthy growth, it must have the necessary nutrients. Like any other plant, if the plant does not get enough nitrogen, the leaves will turn yellow. Diagnosis of magnesium and iron deficiency is simple, if any of these are deficient, the leaves will turn yellow but the veins will remain green. Of course, too much light can also make a difference on the surface of the leaf, so make sure you diagnose the problem correctly.

The best and easiest way to keep Peace Lily house plant happy is to plant it in rich soil; Soil that provides both nutrients and proper drainage for the plant. You can use water-soluble fertilizer for the plant once a month during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as it can cause more damage to the plant than a lack of fertilizer. We recommend that you use half the recommended amount of fertilizer to prevent any side effects.

8. Shock due to repotting/replanting

This houseplant usually has no problem changing the pot or planting in propagation. However, this can shock the plant, which can sometimes cause the leaves to turn yellow. Change pots/replanting in the spring. In this way, the plant will have enough time to settle in the new pot.

Peace Lily houseplant can tolerate root compaction well, so you do not need to change the pot very quickly. If you see yellow leaves after repotting; Take a moment and take care of it, it will soon show its new green leaves. If the leaves continue to turn yellow or there are no green leaves, you should find the problem elsewhere. Spathiphyllum is not very immoral in this matter!

9. Pests

Another great thing about the Spathiphyllum house plant is that, like most ornamental plants, it does not attract insects. If you keep it healthy, it will take care of the insects and pests!

They are not immune to insects, of course. But if you see signs of the presence of these uninvited guests, the solution will not be difficult. The main pests are aphids and mealybugs. If you do not water the plant enough, spider mites may also appear.

Cleaning the leaves is a basic and quick treatment that usually solves the problem. Stronger pests can be eliminated by spraying insecticide soap. A mixture of ordinary soap and water is also effective. Start with the amount of light. That means do not use too much soap. If necessary, increase the amount.

10. Diseases

We set aside the worst for the last option! Because there is almost no acceptable treatment for the two main diseases of Spathiphyllum:

• Cylindrocladium Spathyphilli
• Phytophthora Parasticia

These fungi live in the soil and can rot the plant from the roots. The best treatment is prevention. Because seeing the yellowed leaves is almost the last stage of the disease. In fact, you can no longer do much. If you allow the soil to dry between each watering, these diseases cannot multiply or spread. In addition, be sure to use sterilized, clean gloves and scissors when working with the plant.

We explained all the possible problems along with the treatment method. Whatever the reason, do not forget these points:

• Do not throw away the plant! Peace Lily produces new shoots quickly. So the yellow leaves can be replaced with green leaves shortly after the treatment of the plant.
• Remove the yellowed leaves from the plant. They will not grow green again, but due to their weakness may cause other problems for the plant. So delete them now.

Since peace lily turning yellow is another common problem that you may face when you want to care for peace lily, we tried to describe the reasons and the ways to solve it in details.

Why Are Peace Lily Leaves Turning Brown?

If you notice peace lily brown spots, you need to reconsider how you care for this houseplant. In general, this happens due to the mistakes of the plant owner, so the first step is to review the conditions provided.

1. Improper watering

The strongest reason for the brown tips of Spathiphyllum leaves is improper watering, high/low watering are both equally involved. Our experts recommend that you wait until the plant is partially wilted and then water the plant. If you give only a very small amount of water to the plant, the tips of the leaves will probably turn brown.

For example, if instead of watering the plant at the beginning of the wilting process, wait until the plant is completely wilted and then water it, the browning of the leaf tips will be an inevitable complication, and vice versa, over-watering, especially when That the soil is already wet is just as troublesome for the plant, and the sign is the same, the tip of a brown leaf!

2. Humidity

This houseplant enjoys a warm and humid environment. In fact, in order to provide the required moisture in the closed space of the apartment, you have to put it in a tray of water and pebbles. Choose a large tray and cover it with pebbles. Then pour enough water into it to cover half the stones. Then place the pot on the pebbles, so that it has no direct contact with water. If you do not do this, Peace Lily is still healthy, but if you put it next to heating/cooling devices, it can not be safe. In this case, you will see the damage to the plant with the appearance of brown parts at the tip of the leaf.

3. Fertilizer or salt

Accumulation of excess fertilizer in the soil is another reason for the browning of the leaves. Only fertilize the plant if needed, once every few weeks. Solvent fertilizer in water is the best option. Salt in the water can also cause the tips of the leaves to turn brown. If you think your tap water is heavy and high in salt, use distilled water to water the plants. Rainwater or purified water are also suitable.

Thus, if you are faced with the peace lily brown spots, there is no need to worry because you can easily solve the problem with the things we have explained with regard to the peace lily turning brown.

What Should Be Done If The Root Of Peace Lily Is Rotten?

“Root rotten” is another common problem that you may face when you want to care for Peace Lily, so we will try to describe the reasons and the ways to solve it in details. this happens if the plant is over-watered. It is often easy to diagnose. Withering while the soil is wet is one of the most obvious signs of root rot. Whenever you think the root is destroyed anyway, act quickly. Doubt may be wrong, but it is better to remove the root from the soil to make sure it is healthy.

In the first step, as we said, you have to take the plant out of the pot. Remove the soils attached to the root ball and check it well. Cut any part of the root that was sticky, badly colored and smelled with sharp scissors. Now choose a new earthenware pot and fill it with rich soil. Do not forget the bottom of the pot, be sure to empty it after each filling.

After replanting, you need to modify the watering process. If you continue to water as before, the rot will be waiting for the roots again. The best way to determine when to water each plant is to touch the soil. Dip your finger into the soil for a few inches and measure the moisture content. If it was wet, wait again. If you do not want to use this method, listen to Spathiphyllum! By wilting and softening its leaves, it will tell you that it is time to water.

How To Get Peace Lily To Bloom?

Spathiphyllum flower is an attractive part of its growth. Especially among the green and tall leaves, it gives a different effect to the plant. These flowers will eventually be on the plant for a month and then will disappear on their own.

Peace Lily indoor plant will not bloom until it is fully mature. As a result, if your plant is in its first year of life, you should not expect flowers from it. Of course, it is not unlikely that such a plant will not produce flowers, even if it is in perfect health.

The best way to encourage a plant to flower is to provide the right environmental conditions. Spathiphyllum house plant requires rich soil with excellent drainage. Water the plant weekly as needed. It is better to water the plant with distilled water because it is sensitive to the salts in tap water. Do not forget the right fertilizer.

In this case, it is better to place the plant in a place with low light and away from direct sunlight; The amount of incoming sunlight should be enough to read the book. If the room is too dark, gradually move it to a brighter place. This gradual increase in light can also lead to flowering Peace Lily. The flowering of this plant occurs in spring or early summer.

Infographic Of How To Care For Peace Lily

In this article, we tried to explain to you in an infographic the essential tips on how to care for a peace lily plant indoors, so that you can briefly and usefully learn the methods of caring for this plant.

In The End

In this article, we tried to provide you with the necessary information about the methods of caring for a Peace Lily.

However, if you have any questions regarding this indoor plant or you need to get advice from our houseplant experts, please share your questions with us through the comments section below.