Learn how to take care of a peace lily indoors: perfect watering schedule, best light conditions, and how to fix yellow leaves. Complete beginner-friendly guide.
A Complete Guide How to Take Care of a Peace Lily Indoors
Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) are one of the most popular houseplants because they are beautiful, air-purifying, and relatively low-maintenance. With glossy dark green leaves and elegant white blooms, they brighten any room. However, many new owners struggle with drooping, yellow leaves, or lack of flowers. This complete guide explains exactly how to care for a peace lily indoors so it stays healthy and blooms regularly.
Peace Lily Light Requirements
- Peace lilies thrive in bright, indirect light but tolerate low light better than most houseplants. Place your plant near a north or east-facing window where it receives filtered sunlight. Direct afternoon sun scorches the leaves and causes brown tips or crispy edges.
- If your home is dark, a peace lily will still survive and even flower occasionally under medium indirect light. Very low light slows growth and reduces blooming, but the plant rarely dies from insufficient light. Grow lights (6500K full-spectrum) placed 12–18 inches above the plant for 12–14 hours daily work perfectly in windowless rooms.
Peace Lily Watering Schedule
- Overwatering is the number one killer of peace lilies. These plants have a built-in indicator: they droop dramatically when thirsty. Wait until the leaves wilt slightly, then water thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes. Empty the saucer after 30 minutes to prevent root rot.
- In average home conditions (65–75 °F), water every 7–10 days during spring and summer. In winter, reduce to every 10–14 days. Always check the top 2 inches of soil; water only when it feels dry. Use room-temperature filtered water or tap water that has sat out overnight to let chlorine evaporate.
Peace Lily Yellow Leaves – Causes and Fixes
Yellow leaves on peace lilies usually signal one of these common problems:
- Overwatering – The most frequent cause. Soggy soil leads to root rot, and older leaves turn yellow before dropping. Solution: Let the soil dry out more between waterings and repot in fresh, well-draining potting mix if needed.
- Underwatering – Prolonged dryness also causes yellowing, usually accompanied by drooping. Solution: Resume proper watering schedule.
- Aging – The oldest, lowest leaves naturally yellow and die as the plant grows. Simply remove them.
- Too much direct sun – Leaves bleach and develop yellow patches. Move the plant to indirect light.
- Low humidity – Brown tips with yellow halos appear in dry air. Increase humidity to 50–60 % with a pebble tray or humidifier.
Ideal Temperature and Humidity
Keep peace lilies between 65–80 °F (18–27 °C). They tolerate down to 55 °F but suffer below 50 °F. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature swings. Average household humidity (40–60 %) is perfect. In dry winters, mist leaves daily or use a humidity tray.
Soil and Repotting
Use a rich, well-draining aroid mix or regular potting soil amended with perlite and orchid bark. Repot every 1–2 years in spring when roots fill the pot. Choose a container only 1–2 inches larger than the root ball.
Fertilizing Routine
Feed every 6–8 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength. Stop fertilizing in fall and winter. Over-fertilizing causes brown leaf tips.
Toxicity Warning
Peace lilies are mildly toxic to cats, dogs, and children if ingested. Keep out of reach or choose pet-safe alternatives if needed.
FAQ
Q: How often should I water my peace lily indoors?
A: Water when the plant droops slightly or the top 2 inches of soil are dry, usually every 7–10 days.
Q: Why are the leaves on my peace lily turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves are usually caused by overwatering, underwatering, aging, direct sun, or low humidity.
Q: Can a peace lily live in low light?
A: Yes. It tolerates low to medium indirect light but blooms best in bright filtered light.
Q: How do I make my peace lily bloom again?
A: Provide bright indirect light, proper watering, moderate fertilizer, and temperatures above 65 °F.
With the right peace lily care indoors, your plant will reward you with lush foliage and elegant white flowers several times a year. Follow these simple guidelines and enjoy one of the easiest, most forgiving houseplants available.
