Avoid common peace lily ‘mistakes’ for a ‘bright bloom and vibrant plant’

Peace lilies, known for their white flowers, can bloom for several months at a time if owners don't make a common mistake.

By Sophie Harris, Senior Lifestyle Reporter

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Avoid common peace lily ‘mistakes’ for a ‘bright bloom and vibrant plant’ (Image: Getty)

Patty Willems, from sustainable plant pot company elho, said: “Peace lilies are a popular addition to the home thanks to their stunning blooms and glossy green leaves, but they are more than just good looks.

“The peace lily is one of the top houseplants for removing harsh chemicals from the air, literally absorbing airborne toxins through their leaves, before sending them down the plant to the roots, where they are broken down and absorbed back into the soil.

“But there are a few mistakes to avoid if you want to keep your peace lily thriving.”

One “common” mistake involves putting the houseplant in the wrong position within the home.

Peace lilies are super sensitive to direct sunlight, so finding the “perfect” position is important, ideally where there is bright but indirect light.

Get gardening advice straight to your phone Join us on WhatsApp

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

Patty noted: “Prolonged exposure to sunlight can result in burnt leaves, so avoid south-facing windowsills.”

It is also important to consider the environment, making sure they are kept in a warm and humid location.

In the summer months, make sure to move the houseplant to a location which gets more sun.

The expert said: “For a bright bloom and vibrant plant, mist the peace lily once or twice a week or group with other plants to boost humidity.

Watering indoor plant guide

Watering indoor plant guide (Image: EXPRESS)

“Another thing to avoid is letting the room get too chilly, the optimum temperature for this houseplant is between 15C and 25C.

“These tropical plants don’t respond too favourably to the cold, so avoid positioning them near draughty windows and doorways.”

Peace lily houseplants also need their soil to dry a little before watering them again, but letting them dry completely may cause the leaves to wilt.

It can be hard to know when to water houseplants, but a good sign to look for is if the leaves are just slightly beginning to droop.

They should pick up soon after a drink, but also be careful of overwatering, as damp soil is also not good for them and may cause root rot.

Root rot is hard to treat and may result in the plant dying so it’s important to prevent this as much as possible.

Another houseplant which needs to be kept out of direct sunlight is the orchid, which thrives in indirect sunlight.

Similar to the peace lily, it can also suffer from root rot so it is important not to overwater.

Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?