Fredskalla, commonly known as the Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum), is a favored indoor plant appreciated for its elegant appearance and air-purifying qualities. This tropical evergreen plant, originating from the forest floors of Central and South America, features lush, dark green leaves and distinctive white, flag-like spathe flowers. Its adaptable nature makes it a suitable addition to various home environments.
Fredskalla Care Requirements
Light
Fredskalla thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat. An east-facing window is an ideal location, providing moderate light without direct sun, which can scorch leaves. Too little light may result in slower growth and reduced blooming. Excessive direct sunlight can cause brown spots on the foliage.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist for Fredskalla, but avoid sogginess. Drooping leaves signal thirst. Water when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry to the touch. Using filtered or distilled water can help prevent brown leaf tips, as Fredskalla is sensitive to chemicals like fluoride found in tap water.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter provides a good environment for Fredskalla, supporting healthy root development. Ensure pots have drainage holes to prevent water accumulation and root issues.
Temperature and Humidity
Fredskalla prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F (13°C), which can cause leaf damage. As a tropical plant, it benefits from high humidity. Increase humidity by misting leaves, placing the pot on a pebble tray with water, or using a room humidifier.
Fertilizing
Fredskalla is not a heavy feeder, requiring moderate fertilization. During its active growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer every six to eight weeks. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to salt buildup in the soil, causing brown leaf tips.
Repotting
Repotting Fredskalla is needed every one to two years, or when it outgrows its container. Indicators include roots emerging from drainage holes or visible on the soil surface, or if the plant appears stunted. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting, allowing establishment during active growth. Select a new container only one to two inches larger in diameter than the previous one, with adequate drainage.
Propagating Fredskalla
The primary method for propagating Fredskalla is through division. This process is performed when repotting a mature plant, ideally in spring or early summer during active growth. To divide, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the root ball into smaller clumps. Each new section should have roots and at least a few leaves for establishment. Plant these sections in individual pots with fresh potting mix.
Common Issues and How to Resolve Them
Yellowing leaves on Fredskalla may indicate overwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or improper light. Consistently wet soil indicates overwatering; pale leaves with green veins suggest nutrient deficiency. Adjusting watering practices and providing a balanced fertilizer often resolves these issues.
Brown leaf tips often indicate low humidity, inconsistent watering, or sensitivity to chemicals in tap water, such as fluoride. Increasing humidity through misting or pebble trays, ensuring consistent moisture, and using filtered water alleviates this problem. Naturally browning old leaves can be trimmed.
Drooping leaves are a common signal of thirst, though overwatering can also cause wilting from root rot. Checking soil moisture before watering determines the correct approach. If consistently well-watered but still drooping, the plant might be root-bound or suffering from temperature stress.
A lack of blooms often indicates insufficient light, as Fredskalla requires bright, indirect light to produce its characteristic white spathes. Inconsistent watering or improper fertilizing also inhibits flowering. Adjusting the plant’s location for appropriate light and ensuring a consistent care routine encourages blooming.
Pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids may affect Fredskalla. Inspecting the plant regularly aids early detection. Organic treatment methods, such as wiping leaves with a damp cloth or applying horticultural soap or neem oil, manage infestations.
Fredskalla Safety Information
Fredskalla (Peace Lily) contains calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested, these crystals cause immediate irritation to the mouth and throat. Symptoms in humans and pets include oral pain, excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. While rarely life-threatening, keep Fredskalla plants out of reach of children and pets to prevent ingestion.