Guide to Growing Peace Lilies

Peace Lilies are one of the most common house plants throughout America. They are very popular for their large, tropical foliage and white blooms. Peace lilies are low maintenance and require less attention then the average plant.

Peace Lilies are easy to grow as long as they are cared for properly. Simply placing in indoor light and keeping the soil moist will help them thrive for many years. They should be planted in containers or planters for a beautiful accent to any home or office. They can be put on porches, decks and patios as long as they are not in contact with direct sun.

Scientific Name:

Spathiphyllum

Common Names:

Peace Lily

Spathe Flower

Description:

Peace Lilies are known for their durable, tropical foliage and white, fragrant blossoms. Foliage is dark green, leathery leaf clusters that spread slowly and become more open with age and low light. There are many different cultivars that range in height, leaf and flower sizes

Flower:

Peace Lilies put of white blossoms in a shoot form. They are described as oval bract (spathe) they will open to reveal the true flower which is the spike that is inside the white oval. When flowering, Peace Lilies will do better in more light, such as near a window.

Elements:

Light: Low to Moderate

Temperatures: Days 70-80 degrees F. Nights 60-65 degrees F.

Watering: Keep Soil Moist

Care and Maintenance:

Peace Lilies should not be placed in direct hot sun. Placing in front of a window with out direct sun light is preferred. However, low light is acceptable.

Peace Lilies are great indoor plants because they are able to able to adapt to most environments including low light and low humidity. Soil should be kept moist during active growing seasons and then allowed to dry in between watering when dormant.

Trim faded flowers and yellowing or torn leaves when necessary. To clean, wash with plain water or clean with a soft damp cloth.

Fertilizing:

Fertilize Peace Lilies at half recommended strength every 2 months when growing.

Propagation:

Propagate Peace Lilies by seed or division. Watch for suckers coming up at the base of the plant during growing season. Gently remove from the base with out losing roots. Replant in a separate pot. When plant becomes root bound or too thick, simply divide and repot.

The most common Spathiphyllum is the floribundum, 'Mauna Loa' cultivar; also known as a Snowflower. This cultivar of Peace Lilies has shorter, skinnier leaves but still retains a height of about 24 inches.