Peace lilies are well-known for their graceful white blooms and air-purifying qualities. While they thrive in soil, you can also grow them beautifully in water. Growing peace lily in water only is a low-maintenance way to enjoy its lush green leaves and white flowers indoors. This method, known as hydroponic or water cultivation, helps reduce pests and overwatering problems. It also adds a clean, modern look to your space. With the right vase, proper care, and regular pruning, your peace lily will thrive in water for years.
Starting Your Peace Lily in Water
If you already have a peace lily in soil, it’s simple to transition it to water. First, gently remove the plant from its pot and carefully shake off as much soil as possible. Next, rinse the roots under lukewarm running water to remove all traces of soil. Be sure to handle the roots with care so you don’t damage them. If any roots look brown, mushy, or slimy, trim them off using sterilized scissors. Only keep healthy white or tan roots.
After cleaning the roots, place the peace lily in a container with enough room for its roots to spread out comfortably. Then, fill the vase or glass with water just enough to cover the roots but not the crown (where the leaves meet the roots). Keeping the crown dry prevents rot.
Best Types of Vases and Containers
Choosing the right container makes a big difference when growing peace lily in water. The vase should support the plant upright while keeping the roots submerged and the crown dry. Glass containers work best because they let you monitor water clarity and root health. Clear vases also showcase the root structure, adding an elegant touch to your home decor.
You can use narrow-necked vases to hold the plant upright or wider jars if you support the plant with pebbles or a mesh insert. A tall glass bottle, a wide glass bowl, or a recycled wine bottle with the neck cut off can also work well. Mason jars, vintage pitchers, and even fishbowls add charm and character. Avoid metal containers since metal can release harmful substances into the water.
For a modern look, consider hydroponic vases with narrow openings and bulb-shaped bottoms. These let roots grow freely and make water changes easy. You can also add decorative pebbles or aquarium stones at the bottom for stability and style.
How to Maintain Clean Water
Keeping the water clean is the most important part of growing peace lily in water. Change the water every one to two weeks, or whenever it starts to look cloudy. Always use room-temperature, filtered, or distilled water. Tap water often contains chlorine or fluoride, which can damage roots over time. If using tap water, let it sit out for 24 hours before using it.
Each time you change the water, rinse the roots gently to remove any slimy buildup. Also, clean the vase thoroughly with warm water and a soft brush to prevent algae. Never let algae grow inside the vase, as it competes with the roots for oxygen and nutrients.
If algae is a recurring problem, move your plant away from direct sunlight. Peace lilies prefer bright, indirect light anyway, so placing them near a north- or east-facing window works best. Avoid placing them in dark corners, as poor lighting will slow growth.
Fertilizing Your Peace Lily in Water
While peace lilies can live in water alone for some time, they need nutrients to grow strong and bloom. In soil, they get nutrients from the potting mix, but in water, you must add a liquid fertilizer. Choose a hydroponic fertilizer or a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to one-quarter strength.
Add the fertilizer only once a month during the growing season, usually from spring through early fall. Too much fertilizer will burn the roots and cause yellow leaves. If you see algae forming quickly or roots turning brown, reduce the amount of fertilizer or flush the roots with clean water.
Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows down. During this rest period, just change the water regularly and provide indirect light.
Pruning and Cleaning the Leaves
To keep your peace lily looking its best, prune off any yellowing, dying, or damaged leaves. Use sterilized scissors to snip the leaf stalk near the base. If flowers fade, remove them to encourage new blooms. Regular pruning helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.
Also, wipe the leaves with a damp cloth once a week to remove dust. Dust buildup blocks light and makes it harder for the plant to breathe. You can also mist the leaves lightly to raise humidity, which peace lilies love.
If your peace lily starts drooping, it may be too cold or too hot, or the water may need changing. Keeping the room temperature between 65°F and 80°F will keep it happy. Avoid placing it near drafts, heating vents, or direct sun.
Propagating Peace Lily in Water
You can propagate peace lily easily by dividing it when you clean the roots. Look for small offshoots, or baby plants, growing from the base. Gently separate the baby plant from the mother plant, making sure it has roots of its own. Then, place it in a smaller vase with clean water.
Just like the main plant, make sure only the roots are submerged and the crown stays above water. Give it bright, indirect light and change the water weekly. In a few weeks, you’ll see new growth as the baby plant settles in.
Peace lilies grow slowly in water, so patience is key. However, with the right care, you can grow a whole collection of peace lilies in different containers throughout your home.
Benefits of Growing Peace Lily in Water
Growing peace lily in water offers many benefits. First, it cuts down on mess and eliminates the chance of overwatering. You don’t need to worry about fungal gnats or compacted soil. Also, it’s easier to monitor root health and prune as needed.
This method also gives a sleek, modern look that fits well in minimal or contemporary spaces. Peace lilies in water pair beautifully with glass vases, marble countertops, and open shelves. They also make great gifts since they require little care.
In addition, peace lilies help purify the air by removing toxins like benzene and formaldehyde. Having one on your desk or nightstand adds both beauty and wellness to your home.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
If the leaves turn yellow, check the roots. Too much fertilizer or poor water quality can cause root burn. Flush the roots with clean water and reduce feeding. If leaves droop, make sure the roots are fully submerged and the plant gets enough light.
Brown tips can result from dry air or tap water chemicals. Try using distilled water and increasing humidity. Algae in the vase is another issue. You can solve it by changing the water more often and moving the plant out of direct sunlight.
Lastly, if your peace lily stops blooming, don’t worry. It may need more light or a small dose of fertilizer. Flowering in water takes time, but with consistent care, blooms will return.
Final Thoughts
Growing peace lily in water only is a beautiful and simple way to enjoy this classic houseplant. Start with a healthy plant, use a clear glass vase, and keep the roots clean. With monthly feeding, weekly water changes, and occasional pruning, your peace lily will thrive for years without soil.
This method not only saves time but also adds a fresh, stylish touch to any room. Whether placed on a shelf, coffee table, or windowsill, a peace lily in water brings calm, beauty, and life to your home.
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