Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily)

• Originally from tropical rainforests of Central and South America, peace lilies are adapted to filtered light and humid conditions. They've become one of the most popular houseplants worldwide due to their forgiving nature.
• The white 'flowers' are actually modified leaves called spathes that surround the true tiny flowers on the central spike. These elegant blooms can last for several weeks and appear throughout the year.
• Peace lilies are excellent air purifiers, removing common household toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from indoor air. NASA studies have confirmed their air-cleaning abilities.
• They're perfect for beginners because they clearly show when they need water by drooping dramatically, then quickly recovering once watered. This makes them almost impossible to kill with proper basic care.

• Water when soil surface feels dry, approximately weekly in warmer months and less frequently in winter. Always empty drainage saucers after 30 minutes to prevent waterlogging.
• Provide bright, indirect light - avoid direct sun which burns leaves, but ensure adequate light for flowering. North or east-facing windows work perfectly.
• Use well-draining potting mix combined with some perlite or bark chips for extra drainage. Regular indoor plant potting mix is suitable with good drainage holes.
• Feed monthly during spring and summer with diluted liquid fertiliser at quarter strength. Reduce to every 6-8 weeks in autumn and winter when growth slows.
• Remove spent flowers at the base and wipe leaves monthly with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve photosynthesis. Trim yellowing leaves at soil level.
• Maintain humidity with regular misting around the plant or use a pebble tray filled with water. Group with other plants to create a humid microclimate.

• Place in bright, indirect light away from direct sunlight which can scorch leaves - near an east or north-facing window is ideal. Peace lilies can tolerate low light but may bloom less frequently.
• Water when top 2-3cm of soil feels dry, allowing excess water to drain completely from the pot. In winter, reduce watering frequency as growth slows down.
• Maintain humidity levels of 40-60% by grouping with other plants, using a humidifier, or placing on a pebble tray. Higher humidity promotes better growth and flowering.
• Keep in temperatures between 18-24°C and protect from cold drafts and air conditioning vents. Consistent temperatures encourage regular blooming cycles.

• Brown leaf tips indicate low humidity or fluoride in tap water - use filtered water and increase humidity with a pebble tray. Mist around the plant regularly but avoid wetting the leaves directly.
• Yellow leaves usually signal overwatering or poor drainage - allow soil to dry between waterings and ensure proper drainage holes. Remove affected leaves at the base with clean scissors.
• Spider mites appear as fine webbing and tiny specks on leaves - wipe leaves with damp cloth weekly and increase humidity. Treat severe infestations with neem oil spray.
• Root rot occurs from waterlogged soil - repot immediately in fresh, well-draining mix and trim black, mushy roots. Reduce watering frequency going forward.