The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) is a popular houseplant, recognized for its elegant dark foliage and distinctive white flower-like spathes. While typically grown in soil, it is possible to cultivate a Peace Lily entirely in water, a method known as hydroculture or semi-hydroponics. This unique approach allows the plant to live and thrive for an extended period, often indefinitely, provided its specific needs for aquatic life are met. Successfully growing a Peace Lily in water requires a distinct understanding of the plant’s biological adaptation and a dedicated maintenance routine.
The Feasibility of Permanent Water Culture
A Peace Lily can survive in water for many years, potentially achieving a lifespan similar to or slightly shorter than a soil-grown plant, which can sometimes exceed two decades with proper care. The key to this longevity lies in the plant’s ability to undergo a significant biological adaptation. Roots that develop in soil, known as terrestrial roots, are primarily structured to draw oxygen from air pockets within the potting mix. When these roots are fully submerged in water, they lack the necessary oxygen and will eventually perish.
For permanent water culture to succeed, the plant must grow new, specialized roots called aquatic or hydroponic roots. These roots are adapted to absorb dissolved oxygen directly from the water. The initial transition period, during which the original soil roots die back and the new water roots form, is the most vulnerable time for the plant. Once this adaptation is complete, the Peace Lily can maintain long-term health and growth in its new aquatic environment.
Transitioning the Peace Lily from Soil to Water
The successful shift from soil to water begins with meticulously cleaning the plant’s root system. Start by gently removing the Peace Lily from its pot and working the soil away from the roots. The roots must be thoroughly rinsed under running water to eliminate every particle of soil, as any organic material left behind will decompose in the water and promote bacterial or fungal growth.
After cleaning, inspect the roots and use clean, sharp scissors to trim away any damaged, dark, or mushy sections. It is also beneficial to trim the root mass significantly to encourage the rapid growth of the new, specialized aquatic roots. Place the prepared plant into a clean glass container, ensuring the crown remains above the waterline to prevent rot. The container should then be filled with non-chlorinated water, such as filtered, distilled, or rainwater, to minimize the introduction of harsh chemicals.
Essential Care and Maintenance in Water
Long-term survival in water culture depends heavily on maintaining optimal water quality and providing necessary nutrients. The water should be changed completely every one to two weeks to replenish the dissolved oxygen supply and prevent the water from becoming stagnant or cloudy. When changing the water, the container should also be cleaned to remove any residue or algae buildup.
Plain water is insufficient for sustained growth because it lacks the necessary macronutrients and micronutrients the plant needs to build new tissue. Therefore, a diluted liquid fertilizer, specifically a hydroponic nutrient solution, must be added to the water, typically on a monthly basis. It is crucial to use a highly diluted mixture to prevent chemical burn or nutrient overload.
Peace Lilies generally prefer bright, indirect light, and this requirement remains the same in water culture. Placing the plant in a location with filtered sunlight will encourage growth and flowering. The ideal temperature range for these tropical plants is between 68 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and they should be kept away from cold drafts or direct airflow.
Recognizing and Addressing Water Culture Issues
Even with careful maintenance, a water-grown Peace Lily can encounter specific issues. A common problem is the growth of green algae inside the glass container, caused by too much light exposure. Algae competes with the plant roots for nutrients and oxygen, and it can be controlled by moving the container to a slightly shadier spot or by using an opaque vessel.
Root rot, characterized by slimy, brown, or black roots, occurs if the water is not changed frequently enough, leading to oxygen deprivation. If root rot is identified, the affected roots should be carefully trimmed away, and the water change frequency should be increased immediately.
Nutrient deficiencies will manifest visually on the plant’s foliage, often appearing as pale or yellowing leaves due to a lack of essential elements like nitrogen. If these symptoms appear, review the fertilization schedule and slightly increase the concentration or frequency of the hydroponic nutrient solution.