Spathiphyllum | how to take care

The Spathiphyllum plant also known as Peace Lily is one of the most popular houseplants that will catch the attention of plant lovers with its radiant white flowers. It is one of the few indoor plants that will continue to bloom for long time and when it is not in bloom making a wonderful foliage houseplant. 

Spathiphyllum, an attractive plant

Spathiphyllum is a genus of about 47 species of monocotyledonous flowering plants in the family Araceae, native to tropical forests of the America and Asia. They are evergreen herbaceous perennial plants with large impressive leaves. The flowers are produced in a spadix surrounded by white, cream and greenish spathes. 

Care tips for the plant

Light: Spathiphyllum plant needs plenty of filtered light, though not direct sunlight. Some varieties can withstand more light than others. Even though it loves the light it doesn’t mind being in rooms that are half shaded or even completely shaded. Curled, pale leaves generally indicate that the plant is receiving too much light and scorched leaves indicate too much direct sun. In either case the plant should be moved to a shadier place. 

Water: During the summer season water Spathiphyllum plant thoroughly. In winter, reduce watering but never allow the soil to dry out because it will wilt. If the water is highly chlorinated use filtered water. Keep the soil moist but not soggy or flooded as this can cause yellow leaves.

Soil: Choose a rich potting soil containing plenty of organic material. These plants are native to tropical canopy conditions where the soil is rich with deteriorating plant material. Growing them as outdoor plants requires soil that is similar to this composition.

Temperature: Spathiphyllum plant likes moist and warm environments. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 12oC. Ideal temperature range is 18oC to 26oC. 

Fertilizer: Spathiphyllum is a tough plant that produces its own food. As they are not in their natural environment they need a boost with a balanced water fertilizer every other month. The growth period of the plant begins in spring. This is the best time to supply the plant with nutrients. A liquid fertilizer is added every two weeks always after watering the plant. Always fertilize the moist earth because the fertilizer is more evenly distributed and the roots can absorb the nutrients more efficiently. The small brown dots on the leaves of a Spathiphyllum plant indicate that it has been given too much fertilizer. 

Humidity: Put a layer of pebbles in a flat bawl and fill it with a bit of water. Put the flower pot on top of the pebbles without the roots getting wet. This is only about the air humidity that rises and benefits the plant. 

Leaves: Wipe off any dust from the leaves with a damp cloth. This will make the plant look beautiful, help it breath and will remove any pests that may be present on the leaves.

Potting: When the plant gets too large, after one or two years, it is the time to divide your plant. Carefully take the plant out of the pot and split the roots. Then place the new plants into a wider pot with fresh rich soil, add water and enjoy the new plants. Use a well-draining potting mix that is high in organic matter and a container that has drain holes.

Pests: The most common enemies of Spathiphyllum are fungus, gnats, mealy bugs, mites, scale and whitefly. They are easy to get rid of with simple insecticides and even warm water.

Benefits: They remove toxins such as benzene, CO2, formaldehyde and more from the air making them the perfect plants for any house or office. 

Caution: Spathiphyllums are poisonous to cats. They contain oxalates which can irritate an animal’s mouth and stomach. Because the irritation begins at first bite, the animal stops eating the plant pretty quickly avoiding severe poisoning. Keep Spathiphyllum plant away from animals and children. 

This lovely plant is the perfect indoor plant and will be a lasting reminder of your love. It is wonderful as a housewarming or sympathy gift or for someone launching a new business and it makes a natural fit for any interior decor. If you are ready to send this lovely plant to your loved ones then take a look at anthemionflowers.com for any kind of gift.