Reviving a Faltering Peace Lily: Strategies for Resurrecting a Dying Spathiphyllum

Gardener Tonya Barnett, with 13 years of experience specializing in flowers and maintaining a cut flower garden, shares her gardening experiences on her YouTube channel. Today, we focus on the care of the popular Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum), a plant renowned for its ease of growth and beauty.

Proper Care for Peace Lilies

Peace lilies thrive best when their cultural conditions are optimal. Here are some key points to consider:

Watering: Peace lilies should be watered only when the surface of the soil has dried. Pot-bound peace lilies dry more quickly between waterings, and roots may even begin to emerge from the top and/or drainage holes of containers. Overwatering or in soils that drain poorly can lead to root and stem rot in peace lilies.
Drainage: Proper drainage is crucial to prevent rot and fungal infections in peace lilies. Lilies should be positioned into pots that are at least one size larger and filled with a quality growing medium.
Repotting: Repotting is necessary when peace lilies become root-bound, which can cause drooping in peace lily leaves. Before repotting, water the peace lily well and allow it to rest for several hours. Loosen or tease free any circling roots during the repotting process.
Pests: Mealybug and scale are common indoor pests that can cause peace lilies to droop. Insecticidal soaps or other treatments may be needed to address insect infestations.
Temperature and Humidity: Peace lilies can wilt due to sudden changes in temperature or humidity, especially if the temperature drops below 60F (15C).
Nutrient Deficiencies: Yellowing leaves and drooping are signs of potential nutrient deficiencies in peace lily soil. Routine feeding helps to maintain the health and appearance of peace lilies. Use balanced, liquid feeds specifically formulated for houseplants.
Light and Humidity Sensitivity: Certain Peace lily varieties can be more sensitive and thus more suitable for specific environments. Generally, some Peace lily cultivars differ in tolerance to light, humidity, and watering conditions, making them variably suited to indoor or shaded outdoor settings. However, detailed cultivar sensitivities are not provided in the available sources.

Maintaining Your Peace Lilies

Quick diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help in preserving affected peace lilies. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overfeeding. With proper care, your peace lilies will continue to flourish and bring beauty to your indoor spaces.

For more gardening tips and insights from Tonya Barnett, be sure to check out her YouTube channel.

Reviving a Faltering Peace Lily: Strategies for Resurrecting a Dying Spathiphyllum