Why is my peace lily not flowering? Peace lilies or Spathiphyllum are the most popular indoor plants among flower lovers. These flowering plants are one of the best variants for beginners. Here are the best tips you need to learn about how to take care of your peace lilies properly.
How and when does it bloom?
Peace lilies flower all year, but I noticed that the most active period of blooming is usually from early summer to fall.
The bloom period depends on the variety type of the certain plant. The peace lily flower usually has one period of blooming during the year.
But this process can repeat more often if there are favorable conditions for peace lily bloom.
The bloom period also depends on the maturity of the certain flower. When I have planted a young flower, I usually wait at least 9 months. During this time, the sprout reaches a sufficient level of maturity to start to bloom.
During the bloom period, the peace lily produces small, white flowers. This flowering can last for a few weeks. I give it very good care and natural light and prolong the period of bloom for several months.
What is the origin of peace lily’s name?
The evergreen plants are originally from South Africa, and several species also can be met in tropical forests of Asia and northern Australia.
It belongs to the group of tropical plants that get used to certain environment.
The name of peace lily derives from the Greek words “spath” which means spoon or spade, and “phyllum” which means leaf. And the form of peace lily’s leaves does fully reflect its origins. The healthy leaves of this plant are bright, and it has large dark green leaves; the form of flowers reminds us of a little leaf, too.
Why can’t I make my peace lily flowers bloom?
Many peace lily owners sometimes face the challenge of bringing their peace lily to bloom. I did, too. I can name several aspects.
Insufficient lighting
Lighting plays a key role in peace lily blooming. As we know, it originates in rainforests. It doesn’t like too much direct sunlight.
But it does not mean that you should provide insufficient light.
The lack of lighting or too much direct sunlight can prevent peace lily from blooming and develop brown leaf tips.
If you want your peace lily to bloom, give it enough light. I always place my light peace lilies under bright but indirect sunlight.
Different species of peace lily
I have also noticed that the number and frequency of peace lily’s flowers are connected to the variety of the plant. Some types of peace lily (Spathiphyllum floribundum) can produce flowers all year round.
Others (Spathiphyllum Chopin) produce the usual quantity of flowers if you provide good care. Other peace lilies (Spathiphyllum cochlearispathum) do not tend to produce blooms.
Irregular fertilizing
Soil nutrition may become an obstacle on the way of growing peace lily flowers as well. Excess and lack of fertilizing made my peace lily flowers stop growing.
The best decision is to fertilize your peace lily during its period of flowering.
Let me point out some markers showing us it’s time for nutrients.
New leaves: I have concluded that if my flower gives green leaves, I can help it accelerate its growth by adding some fertilizing.
Lack of color: the absence of new flowers or fading leaves could signal the irregular fertilizing of your peace lily. The additional nutrients will become a great support that restarts the process of flowering and increases the chances of getting more flowers.
Improper watering and humidity levels
A humid environment is one more point that influences your peace lily flower. Be very careful not to under or overwater the peace lily. Improper watering can make the leaves turn yellow or lead to root rot.
The underwatering makes the soil dry and leads to a lack of growth. The overwatering, in return, may lead to standing water that doesn’t let peace lilies grow because of the root rot.
To check the state of your flower, I always insert my fingernail into the soil to analyze the moisture soil level. Do not let the soil completely dry. I strongly recommend maintaining consistently moist soil.
Plant your peace lily into the cachepot with drainage holes and use a current potting soil. I also put a pebble tray at the bottom of the flower pot. It helps to take the watering process under control.
Frequently asked questions
When it comes to cultivating peace lilies, you can face different questions.
Why are my peace lilies growing leaves but no flowers?
Peace lilies do not like overfertilized soils. If you use too much fertilizer, your plant starts growing new leaves instead of flowers. Too little light, or vice versa, too much light can be another reason for flower absence.
I suggest moving the pot with the peace lily to the south-facing window, and soon you’ll see some new flowers.
What time of year do peace lilies bloom?
According to my observations, peace lilies can bloom at any time of the year, but most often blooming occurs in late spring and summer.
How often does a peace lily flower?
Peace lily usually blooms once a year, although some species may bloom more frequently. The frequency of flowering depends on the growing terms, the plant’s age, and its variety.
How can I get my peace lily to flower?
Lighting: peace lilies require bright, indirect sunlight but can also grow in semi-shade. Avoid direct sun as it can cause burns on its leaves but provide enough light to stimulate flowering.
Temperature: the optimum temperature index for peace lilies is approximately 71 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid sudden temperature changes and drafts.
Watering: peace lilies need regular but moderate watering. I advise you to avoid drying out or overwatering the soil. Water should be soft and warm. With the correct level of humidity, peace lilies may start producing flowers more actively.
Humidity: peace lily prefers high air humidity levels, so it is advisable to shower it regularly, using a spray bottle.
Fertilization: during the plant’s active growth (March to September), you can fertilize the peace lily with complex mineral fertilizers for indoor plants once every 2 weeks. You can try a plant hormone such as gibberellic acid.
Transplanting: young plants are transplanted annually, and adults — every 2–3 years. When repotting, take care not to damage the root system.
Do lilies need sunlight to bloom?
Peace lily plant needs indirect sunlight. It can also grow it in low indirect light, but blooms will be less abundant. So I recommend trying to provide more light for your peace lily flower.
How often should I water my peace lily?
Peace lily requires regular watering, but do not overwater it. Water the plant when the top ground layer is dry. Watering the plant once a week is usually enough.
However, the frequency of watering may encourage flowering, and depend on the growing conditions and the size of the plant.
Results
After all the time growing these beautiful flowers, I can say that peace lily is a plant that requires proper care to make its owners truly happy. It is necessary to follow current rules. Indirect light, well-draining soil, and sufficient nutrient levels can improve peace lily’s flower growth.