Question
Hi, I have had my peace lily for over a year now, and it has done well.  I have noticed lately that the flowers, are dry looking with brown edges. I water it on a regular basis, but I may have overwatered it before vacation.  I noticed today that half of it is sticky. The leaves are all sticky, and it almost looks like a couple of new shoots have inscet bites. Can I wash the leaves with anything?  Not sure where the sticky is comming from. It faces a sheer, curtin, southeast picture window. Please give me any infor you can. Thank you very much.  Frani

Answer
Hi Frani,

The stickiness indicates that your peace lily has a scale insect infestation. On the undersides of some of the leaves you will find some slightly raised oval bumps. Those are the scale insects, although they don't look or move like insects that we are familiar with. They suck on the plant and secrete the sticky substance called honeydew.

I suggest cutting off any leaves that are badly infested or that have started to discolor. Then mix up a solution of 5 parts water, 1 part rubbing alcohol, and a squirt of liquid soap. Thoroughly spray all of the leaf and stem surfaces until they are dripping wet. Pay special attention to the crevices where the leaves emerge close to the soil.

The flowers only last for a week or so before they start to turn brown. That is normal.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.
   
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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