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Our Plant Care: Spathiphyllum

Spathiphyllum is a genus of about 47 species of monocotyledonous flowering plants in the family Araceae, native to tropical regions of the Americas and southeastern Asia. Certain species of Spathiphyllum are commonly known as spath or peace lilies.

Outside of its hardiness zones, many people grow the peace lily indoors. There are many types of peace lilies within the genus. But in general, peace lilies have large, glossy, oval leaves. They typically bloom in the spring, though that can vary when growing them as houseplants. A healthy peace lily might bloom twice a year, resulting in several months of flowers.


Water

Peace lilies prefer being underwatered rather than overwatered. How often you should water a peace lily depends on container size and how fast the soil drains, but, in general, water when the top inch of soil has dried out. 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 or distilled water. Alternatively, you can allow tap water to sit for several days until the chlorine evaporates.

Light

A peace lily needs sunlight, though not direct sun. They are shade-loving plants in their native habitats. But peace lilies indoors need a bit more filtered light. (Some varieties can withstand more light than others.) An east-facing window is a prime spot to place a peace lily in your house.


Keep your variegated peace lily in a place with lots of bright, indirect light or dappled or filtered sunlight. Direct morning light, such as from an east-facing window, can also work well, but avoid harsh direct sun from a west-facing or south-facing window. Too much sun can burn the plant's leaves. Peace lilies can survive in low light, but your plant may lose its variegation and delay flowering.


Soil

Peace lilies like a rich, loose potting mix 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.

Mist the leaves every week with softened or distilled water throughout the summer growing season to raise humidity.

Temperature and Humidity

These plants prefer moist warmth. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures that fall below 12 degrees Celcius; the plant will die when exposed to prolonged cold temperatures. The ideal temperature range for your peace lily is 18 to 27 degrees Celsius.


Mist the leaves every week with softened or distilled water throughout the summer growing season to raise humidity.


Fertiliser

Peace lilies appreciate frequent feedings, which result in the strongest plant and seasonal blooming. Feed your plant weekly in the summer with FabGardenMama Organic Fertiliser. But you do not need to fertilise the plant during the winter.



Repotting

Peace lilies are happiest when they're somewhat root-bound. However, when the plant has clearly exceeded the capacity of the pot, it can be potted up to a larger container in the early spring. If you notice roots popping up out of the soil and down from the drainage holes, it's time to repot. It's ideal for potting the plant in a terracotta or clay vessel that can wick away excess moisture. Always use a high-quality potting mix, and a pot with good drainage.


Cautious

Note that peace lilies are toxic to pets and people so be mindful about where you place a peace lily in your house.

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