Unfavorable locations for cultivating peace lilies - houseplant specialists issue a caution, highlighting these areas could potentially lead to the plant's demise.
The ultimate guide to keeping your peace lily thriving and happier than a cat in a sunbeam? Here's a rundown of the five worst spots to stick 'em. Ward off the misery of a droopy, non-flowering, dying peace lily by avoiding these pitiful placement propositions:
- Sun Trap Central: Basking by a South-facing window might be great for bikini-clad beachgoers, but it's a sun-soaked nightmare for peace lilies. These lush greens love medium to low light, so slap on some sunglasses and move them over, mate! Too much sun exposes them to cruel leaf-scorching and flower deprivation[1].
- The Dimly-Lit Chamber: Some might think that a low-light corner is perfect for delicate souls like peace lilies. But let's be honest, they will survive - but not thrive. Such minimal sunshine makes them stop flowering, turning their leaves a sad, stretched-out shade of leggy, while they desperately reach for more light[2].
- The Whirlwind: Peace lilies are a delicate lot and can't handle sudden temperature changes or drafts caused by vents, open doors, or high-traffic areas. Exposure to brisk breezes or hot air may stress the plant, causing a drop in leaves and yellowing[3].
- The Commuter Station: Peace lilies prefer a nice quiet spot to display their elegant white blooms, not a high-traffic passage where curious claws or thundering footsteps might squish their delicate leaves, bring about damage, and ruin their pristine display. Ah-hem, I'm looking at you, felines[4].
- The Sun-Worshippers' Hangout: Cozying up to sun-loving houseplants seems like a good idea, but avoiding direct sunlight a key requirement for peace lilies[2]. When placed next to plants that require bright and direct lighting (like succulents or snake plants), there is a chance your peace lily might be subjected to more sunlight than it prefers, potentially leading to leaf scorch[5].
By steering clear of these toxic hotspots, you're giving your peace lily a home that mirrors its natural environment, ensuring a longer-lasting bloom and happier overall health.
[1] Rachelle Spruce, "Peace Lily: How to Care for It and Keep It Blooming," University of Florida IFAS Extension, retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/uw317 (May 10, 2021).
[2] "Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)," Gardening Know How, retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/spathiphyllum/peace-lily-care.htm (May 10, 2021).
[3] HortImage, "Peace Lily - Cold Drafts and Chilly Temps," Houseplant411, retrieved from https://houseplant411.com/disorder/temps (May 10, 2021).
[4] Mendes, Leo, "23 Plants Toxic to Cats," Modern Cat, retrieved from https://www.moderncat.com/cat-care/toxic-plants/23-plants-poisonous-cats-1019690 (May 10, 2021).
[5] "Peace Lily," Missouri Botanical Garden, retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=s814 (May 10, 2021).
- To create an environment that fosters growth and happiness for your peace lily, consider placing it away from succulents and other sun-worshipping indoor plants, as direct sunlight can be harmful to its leaves.
- Incorporating peace lilies into your home-and-garden lifestyle can add a touch of elegance to your space while providing low-maintenance indoor plants. However, be mindful to place them in areas with medium to low light, avoiding overexposure to sunlight.
