How to Take Care of a Peace Lily Like an Expert

Why Choose a Peace Lily?

Native to the warm rainforests of Central and South America, peace lilies are easy-going and low-maintenance plants that bring serenity to your home. They’re perfect if you’re looking for a plant that tolerates low-light conditions.

It can also double as a mini air purifier, removing toxins like ammonia and benzene from your home. That said, this tropical plant does have specific needs, and meeting them is the key to enjoying its beauty for years to come.

1. Place it in the Right Spot

A peace lily thrives in bright but indirect light. A place near a north or east-facing window to enjoy filtered sunlight is perfect. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, while insufficient light may hinder blooming.

If your space lacks natural light, artificial grow lights can help. However, keep an eye out for any signs of distress. If the leaves start turning yellow, you may need to move your plant to a shadier spot.

2. Provide the Right Soil

Peace lilies need a well-draining pot with a soil mix rich in organic matter that mimics their tropical roots. An ideal mix contains peat moss, perlite, and pine bark. Adding this potting mix helps lock moisture while allowing enough drainage, preventing root rot from over-logged soil.

3. Water Appropriately

Proper watering is the heart of peace lily care. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Too much water can lead to root rot, while too little can cause your plant to wilt dramatically, so aim to keep the soil evenly moist.

However, peace lilies are sensitive to chemicals like chlorine in tap water. Always use distilled or filtered water, or simply leave tap water out for 24 hours to allow chlorine to dissipate.

4. Maintain Ideal Humidity

Peace lilies are native tropical plants, so they love high humidity. To mimic their natural environment, keep the moisture around the plant optimal. Mist the leaves with distilled water a few times a week, especially during dry seasons like winter. Alternatively, you can place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water to boost humidity around the plant.

5. Fertilize Moderately

While peace lilies aren’t heavy feeders, fertilizing them during the growing season (spring and summer) can enhance their blooms. Use a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer (with a 20-20-20 ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) once a month. Over-fertilizing, however, can cause green blooms instead of white, so use it sparingly and follow the dosage instructions carefully.

6. Re-pot When Necessary

Peace lilies prefer being slightly rootbound, but they will eventually outgrow their pots. If you notice roots emerging from the drainage holes or if the plant requires frequent watering, it’s time to repot.

Choose a pot that’s about 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one (keeping just enough room to grow), and repot every 1 to 2 years in the early spring using fresh soil.

7. Prune the Dead

Although regular pruning isn’t necessary, you must trim any yellow, brown, or wilted leaves to keep your plant looking fresh and healthy. Use sterile scissors or pruning shears and cut near the base of the stalk. This process is called Deadheading. Doing so helps the plant redirect its energy to healthy growth and not to spent blooms (Also, it's aesthetically pleasing).

8. Monitor Temperature

An ideal and comfortable temperature for peace lilies is between 65 and 80°F (18 to 27°C). Avoid exposing them to cold drafts or temperatures below 55°F (13°C), as they may not survive prolonged cold exposure. If the room gets too dry during winter, as heating can cause low humidity levels, consider using a humidifier to keep your peace lilies happy.

9. Treat Pests and Diseases

Peace lilies are usually easy to grow and resilient but can suffer from pests like aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, and snails. If you notice tiny pests or sticky leaves, wash them off with a strong water spray and insecticidal soap. Root rot, caused by overwatering and poor drainage, is another common reason pests thrive, so always avoid letting your peace lily sit in standing water.

10. Encourage Blooming

Peace lilies are known for their striking white flowers (spathes). If yours isn’t flowering, it may need more light or nutrients. Adjust its light source and add a controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) during the growing season to encourage blooms.

Key Signs Your Peace Lily Needs Extra Care

• Droopy leaves: Underwatering is most likely the culprit. To fix it, water the plant and wait a few hours for it to perk up naturally.

  

• Yellow leaves: Could indicate overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to direct sunlight.

  

• Brown leaf tips: Indicators of low humidity, over-fertilization, or chemical sensitivity in water.

  

Stay observant to catch these issues early and give your plant the necessary care.

Caring for and growing peace lilies isn’t just about keeping them alive—it’s about enjoying their calming presence in your home. With moderate effort, you can turn your peace lily into a resilient, long-living plant that rewards you with stunning blooms and gorgeous foliage.

If you’re ready to create a lush, peaceful indoor haven, implement these peace lily care tips today. Remember, patience and consistency are key to helping your peace lilies thrive.