Question
I am going to go with the cottony description. After looking at the leaves further, I found small cotton-like blobs on the under sides of the leaves.  

Thanks for your fast response!



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Followup To
Question -
My indoor peace lily has a problem.  I have had him for years in a water only planter.  All of a sudden, it looks as if someone got white paint on the tips of some of the leaves.  Any clue?
Answer -
Hi Allison,

If the white stuff is soft and cotton-like in texture, then it is mealybug. If it is crusty and dry, then it is probably a buildup of minerals from the water.

Let me know which best describes what your peace lily has and I will tell you how to treat it.

Will Creed

Answer
Hi Allison,

The best treatment for mealybugs is to thoroughly drench all leaf and stem surfaces with a solution of six parts water, one part rubbing alcohol, and a squirt of liquid dish soap.

You indicated that your peace lily is growing in water. If so, take it out of its vase, hold it upside down, and swirl the leaves and stems around in a sink or tub filled with the soap/alcohol mix. This will ensure complete coverage.

As an alternative, thoroughly spray the leaves and stems until they are dripping wet.

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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