Question
I received a large Peace Lilly from my grandmother's funeral 2 years ago. It's a huge plant and I've been successful in keeping it green and, I thought, healthy. However, it has not bloomed since that 1st season. The leaves are all green. It took a while but I found a spot in my house that it seems to be happy living in. I did a lot of research and discovered that it's a plant that prefers to be watered from the bottom. What do you think?

Answer
Hi Wendy,

Although there is no harm in watering from the bottom - provided it is done properly, and it often is not - that has no relevance to the lack of flowers.

Spathiphyllum or peace lily is a sporadic bloomer and it varies widely with the particular variety that you have. Most will bloom once or twice per year, but never as prolifically as their original greenhouse-induced flowers.

Although peace lilies will survive in low light, they do better in bright indirect light. Right in front of a north or east facing window that is unobstructed throughout the day is best.

Peace lilies flower best when they are quite potbound, so I advise against repotting. If you did repot yours, then that may be the reason it has not flowered.

Peace lilies wilt very quickly as soon as the soil becomes just a bit too dry. The key is to water it thoroughly just before it starts to wilt. In general, this is when the surface of the soil starts to feel barely dry or just barely damp. Even when allowed to wilt, peace lilies will recover within 2 to 4 hours after a good watering. However, wilting stresses the plant, so it is best to avoid letting it wilt.

The addition of plant food at half strength monthly will sometimes help promote flowers, but don't overdo it.

In sum, peace lily flowering depends on varietal genes, lots of bright light, a potbound condition, proper watering, and occasional plant food.

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

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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