Peace Lilies are stunning tropical plants with glossy green foliage and long-lasting flower stalks that float above. The white bracts turn pale green and linger for at least a month. Blooming freely from spring, these accent houseplants need some care in fall and winter to thrive!
Types of Peace Lily
A photoperiod study by the University of Florida on peace lilies (spathiphyllum) to determine how day and night lengths influenced blooms revealed that several factors, such as the plant’s “type” and “age,” affected flowering response. This brings us to the different types of peace lilies.
The most classic types are season-dependent varieties such as Petite, Tys Pride, and Viscount. They bloom in spring and early summer but set buds the previous December and January when the days are short and nights long.
Cross or multi-seasonal peace lilies such as Connie, Little Angel, and Mini bloom more than once a year. Another type of blooming reaction that emerged was the age-dependent ones, which flowered continuously after reaching a certain maturity—UF474-1, UF576-14, and UF545-98!
So, if you’re looking for peace lilies that bloom multiple times a year, it helps to know the type and its characteristics. As cold weather approaches, let’s explore what you should do with your peace lily during fall and winter.
Things to Do with Peace Lily in the Fall
1. Prune Lightly
Start with a Mature Plant
After your peace lily blooms in spring and summer, it may bloom again in fall if all needs are met. As the flowers fade, snip off the stems at the bottom to remove spent ones. Also, gently remove brown and yellow leaves and wilting parts.
This enables the plant to focus and conserve its energy during winter dormancy.
2. Bring it Indoors
Native to tropical Amazon rainforests and parts of southeastern Asia, Peace Lily is hardy to USDA zones 10-12. However, come fall and winter, your plant may not be equipped to withstand cold drafts, frosty earth, and sudden temperature dips.
Fall is a good time to bring your peace lily indoors if your region experiences outdoor cold below 55 F (13 C) persistently. This plant needs consistent temperatures of 65-80 F (18-27 C) to do well, so ensure your indoor space enjoys these conditions without fluctuations.
see next page
ADVERTISEMENT
