Peace Lily Care Guide For NZ

Growing The Peace Lily In NZ

Peace lilies are not true lilies but are part of the Araceae family. They are relatively easy to care for, making them ideal for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. Besides their beauty, peace lilies are also known for their air-purifying qualities, which can enhance indoor air quality.

Peace Lily Light Requirements

Peace lilies thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, while too little light can stunt their growth and reduce flowering. In New Zealand, it's best to place your peace lily near a window with filtered light or in a spot that receives dappled sunlight. During the winter months, when daylight is limited, you might need to move your peace lily closer to a light source. Conversely, in the summer, ensure it is not exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.

Peace Lily Watering

Watering is a critical aspect of peace lily care. These plants prefer consistently moist soil but are sensitive to overwatering. Water your peace lily when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In New Zealand's varied climate, you may need to adjust your watering schedule based on the season and humidity levels.

Overwatering is one of the most common peace lily problems. Ensure your pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. If the leaves turn yellow, it may indicate overwatering. In contrast, drooping leaves usually signal that the plant needs water.

Where Is The Best Place To Put A Peace Lily?

The best place to put a Peace Lily is in bright, indirect light such as near a north- or east-facing window. Avoid direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves. Peace Lilies also thrive in moderate to high humidity and prefer consistently moist, well-drained soil. They can tolerate lower light but may produce fewer flowers. Keep them away from cold drafts or heating vents.

Advantages of Peace Lilies

The key advantages of Peace Lilies include:

• Low-maintenance and easy to grow indoors
• Tolerant of low to medium light conditions
• Improves indoor air quality by filtering toxins like formaldehyde and benzene
• Adds aesthetic appeal with glossy green leaves and white flowers
• Increases indoor humidity, benefiting skin and respiratory health
• Helps reduce airborne mould spores
• Creates a calming and relaxing atmosphere in any room

Common Peace Lily Problems

Peace Lilies do encounter problems from time to time. Some of the more common issues include:

Yellowing Leaves

• Yellow leaves can result from several factors, including overwatering, underwatering, or insufficient light. Evaluate your care routine and adjust as needed to resolve the issue.

Brown Tips

• Brown tips on leaves are often caused by low humidity or over-fertilization. Increase humidity by misting the plant or placing a humidifier nearby. If over-fertilization is the problem, flush the soil with water to remove excess salts.

Lack of Flowers

• If your peace lily isn't flowering, it may not be receiving enough light. Ensure it gets bright, indirect light and consider using a phosphorus-rich fertilizer to encourage flower production.

Peace Lily Maintenance

Peace lilies benefit from regular feeding during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 6-8 weeks along with indoor plant fertiliser in spring. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to salt build-up in the soil and cause plant injury.

Regularly prune yellow or dead leaves to keep your peace lily looking its best. Repotting every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, will promote healthier growth and more prolific flowering. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and use a well-draining potting mix.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Peace Lilies?

Some disadvantages of Peace Lilies include:

• Toxicity: Peace Lilies are toxic to pets and humans if ingested, causing irritation, nausea, or more serious symptoms.
• Humidity Needs: They require moderate to high humidity, which can be challenging to maintain in dry indoor environments.
• Sensitivity: Peace Lilies are sensitive to overwatering and poor drainage, which can lead to root rot.
• Low Light Growth: While tolerant of low light, they may grow slowly and flower less in dim conditions.
• Dust Accumulation: Their large leaves can collect dust, requiring regular cleaning for optimal health.