Peace lilies, known for their forgiving nature and adaptability to various light conditions, are often considered one of the simplest flowering houseplants to maintain. However, getting them to bloom is a different story.
These plants are low-maintenance, tolerating low light, dry soil, and even signalling when they need water by drooping their leaves. But to see their iconic white blooms, you must provide the right conditions. To ensure your peace lily blooms beautifully this spring and summer, it’s crucial to perfect your watering technique.
Peace lilies prefer to remain slightly moist but never waterlogged. Overwatering is a common mistake, so before reaching for your watering can, check if the plant truly needs hydration.
You can do this by inserting your finger into the soil. If the soil sticks to your finger without being overly wet, it’s time for a light watering.
Repeat this process as necessary to prevent the soil from becoming too dry.
Watering houseplants based on their needs rather than a rigid schedule is advisable, as every home varies, and changing temperatures and humidity levels may require adjustments in watering frequency.
For instance, a peace lily in a warm, dry setting might need water every few days, while one in a cooler, damper room will require less frequent watering.
The frequency of watering your peace lily will vary with the seasons. During the growth-intensive spring and summer months, peace lilies require more hydration compared to the cooler autumn and winter periods.
However, performing a soil test before each watering session will ensure your plant remains in tip-top condition throughout the year.
For watering, you have two options: the traditional watering can method or bottom-watering by placing the pot in a water-filled bowl or sink for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Gardening guru Rachel Cole from Mr Fothergill’s Seeds endorses the latter technique, advising: “Water once or twice a week and make sure the water is absorbed from the base, rather than being poured directly onto the leaves.”
She notes that this approach helps avert root rot and allows the plant to uptake “just the right amount” of moisture.
Fortunately, peace lilies are quite forgiving if the top inch or two of soil dries out, so the odd skipped watering won’t spell disaster for your green companion.
