Spathiphyllum – Bellini – Peace Lily plant

Spathiphyllum-Bellini – Peace Lily plant

Peace lilies are tropical species and hybrid from the Spathiphyllum genus that are a favorite flowering houseplant. A striking plant when used in mass display, the peace lily blooms in spring with long-lasting flower stalks that hover gracefully over the foliage. The plant has glossy oval leaves with points that emerge from the soil. A well-grown peace lily may bloom twice a year, resulting in several months of flowers.

When grown in the garden in the tropical and subtropical climates where they are hardy, peace lilies are normally planted in the spring while it is still cool. As houseplants, they can be purchased and brought into the home at any time, though you will want to protect the plants from cold temperatures as you move them from the store to your home. They are moderate growers and will reach maturity in around three years.

Peace Lily Care

Peace lilies are generally grown as potted houseplants in the United States, as most areas are not conducive to growing the plant outdoors. If you have potted peace lilies, you can move them outside during the summer months, but once temperatures dip, it’s a good idea to bring them back inside.

Peace lilies enjoy moderately moist soil and filtered sunlight, along with consistently temperate conditions. These plants are free of most of the diseases and pests that can plague indoor plants, but they can be susceptible to scale and mealybugs.

Light

Peace lilies are shade-loving plants in their native habitats, but when grown indoors they need a bit more filtered light, though not direct sunlight (some varieties can withstand more light than others). Curled, pale leaves generally indicate that the plant is receiving too much light and scorched leaves indicate too much direct sun. In either case, the plant should be moved to a shadier location.

Soil

Peace lilies like rich, loose potting soil that contains plenty of organic matter. These plants are native to tropical canopy conditions where the soil is packed with deteriorating plant material, so you’ll find the best success with soil that mimics this composition. Additionally, the plant is also very sensitive to too-damp soil conditions, so be sure to choose a well-draining mixture and pot the plant in a terracotta or clay vessel that can wick away excess moisture.

Water

Peace lilies much prefer being underwatered rather than overwatered, so take care to water them only when they’re dry at least an inch below the surface. During the summer, mist peace lilies frequently because they thrive with higher humidity like is typical in a rainforest. In winter, reduce watering but never allow the soil to dry out completely. If your water at home is highly chlorinated, it’s a good idea to use filtered water. Alternatively, you can allow tap water to sit for several days until the chlorine evaporates out.

Temperature and Humidity

These plants really prefer moist warmth. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures that fall below 55 degrees Fahrenheit—the plant will die when exposed to prolonged cold temperatures. The ideal temperature range for your peace lily is 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Spritz the leaves every week with softened or distilled water throughout the summer growing season.

Fertilizer

Peace lilies appreciate frequent feedings, which result in the strongest plant and seasonal blooming. Feed your plant weekly in the summer or use slow-release pellets at the beginning of the season. You do not need to fertilize the plant during the winter.