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How to water a peace lily

Spathiphyllum wallisii

Quick answer

Water a peace lily when the surface or upper few centimeters have dried, then wet the root ball and let it drain. The plant should not sit in standing water or stay saturated.

Peace lily
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Toxic to pets

Starting point (summer)
every 6 to 8 days
Starting point (winter)
every 11 to 17 days

How to water a peace lily

  1. 01

    When to water

    Keep the potting mix damp but not saturated and water when the surface or upper few centimeters have dried. A dramatic droop can be an observable sign that the plant may need water, not a universal calendar interval.

    Reduce watering slightly in winter when growth slows, then return toward the active-growth pattern as light and growth increase. This is a directional change, not a fixed winter schedule for every home.

  2. 02

    How to water thoroughly

    Water thoroughly enough to wet the root ball, allow the container to drain freely and pour away water from the saucer or outer pot. Use room-temperature water. Rainwater or filtered water is also fine.

    Do not leave the peace lily in standing water because roots can rot when potting mix stays wet for long periods. Aim for potting mix that stays damp but drains freely. Avoiding soggy potting mix does not mean letting it dry out completely.

  3. 03

    Signs of too much or too little water

    Drooping can follow a dry root ball, while yellowing, brown tips or root decline can also follow overwatering, low humidity, direct sun, salts or another stress. Inspect moisture and roots before changing the routine.

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