Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) are a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts, and I’m no exception. Their glossy green leaves and elegant white blooms instantly brighten any room.
Moreover, NASA’s famous Clean Air Study showed that these plants are excellent at removing toxins like benzene and formaldehyde from indoor air.
However, if you’re not seeing those signature white blooms or if your plant looks a little lackluster, it might need a little extra love. Over the years, I’ve discovered a few tricks that transformed my peace lily into a lush, flower-producing masterpiece.
And here’s the kicker: most sellers don’t share these tips. Let me walk you through the steps to grow your peace lily unstoppably!
The Secret Weapon: Milk Fertilizer
Do you know milk is packed with calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins, all of which are essential for plant health. Calcium strengthens the roots, phosphorus boosts flower production, and vitamins help maintain lush, green leaves.
You just mix equal parts water and whole milk (e.g., 500ml each) and use this mixture to water your peace lily once a month. Avoid overdoing it, as too much milk can lead to sour-smelling soil.
I’ve been doing this for years, and it’s been the key to those vibrant leaves and frequent blooms.
Optimal Light: Bright, Indirect Light is Key
While peace lilies are known for tolerating low light, they truly thrive in bright, indirect sunlight.
I keep mine near a north- or east-facing window, where it gets plenty of light without being scorched by the sun. Too much direct sunlight can cause brown spots on the leaves, while too little light can hinder blooming.
If your home lacks natural light, consider using a grow light. I’ve had success with LED grow lights, which mimic sunlight and keep my peace lilies blooming even during winter.
Moisture Maintenance: Water and Humidity
Peace lilies come from tropical rainforests, so they love consistent moisture and high humidity. So stick your finger into the soil, if it feels dry, it’s time to water. Be sure to empty the saucer under the pot to avoid waterlogging.
In addition, misting the leaves occasionally helps mimic their natural environment. I like to mist mine every few days, especially during dry winter months when indoor heating lowers humidity levels.
Repot When It’s Root-Bound
Peace lilies are fast growers, and before you know it, they’ll outgrow their pots. I repot mine every 1–2 years, or whenever I see roots poking out of the drainage holes.
To repot, you need to choose a pot that’s one size larger than the current one, then use a blend of regular potting soil and perlite to ensure the roots don’t sit in water.
Next, you gently loosen the root ball and remove any dead or mushy roots before placing the plant in its new pot. Finally, you water thoroughly and keep it in a shaded spot for a few days to reduce transplant shock.
Pruning for Health and Beauty
Occasionally, peace lilies develop yellowing or browning leaves. This is normal and you can prune them to redirect its energy to new growth.
Use clean scissors or pruning shears to cut off damaged leaves at the base. I like to prune mine during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Bonus Tips for Thriving Peace Lilies
- Feed regularly: Beyond milk fertilizer, you can use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Keep the leaves clean: Dust can accumulate on the leaves and block light absorption. I wipe mine with a damp cloth every couple of weeks.
- Temperature matters: You should keep your peace lily in a room that stays between 65–80°F (18–27°C). Avoid placing it near cold drafts or heaters.
Common Problems and Solutions
Drooping leaves are usually a sign of underwatering or overwatering. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering routine.
Besides, you can see brown tips which could be due to low humidity or fluoride in tap water, so you can use distilled or rainwater, and increase humidity.
