Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) are popular houseplants, known for their elegant white “flowers” (modified leaves called spathes) and lush green foliage. They are a favored choice for indoor environments due to their adaptability and easy care. Propagating new peace lily plants from an existing one is a straightforward process that allows enthusiasts to expand their collection or share plants, while maintaining the parent plant’s genetic characteristics.
Propagating Peace Lilies by Division
Division is the most effective method for propagating peace lilies. This process separates a mature plant into smaller sections, each capable of growing independently. It is effective because each new section already possesses a root system, significantly aiding establishment.
The ideal time to divide a peace lily is during spring or early summer, coinciding with the plant’s active growing season. This period offers optimal conditions for new root development and plant recovery. Division can also be performed when a peace lily becomes root-bound, signaling it has outgrown its pot, or during general repotting to refresh its potting medium.
Before division, gather a clean, sharp knife or pruning shears, new pots with drainage holes, fresh well-draining potting mix, and gloves to protect your hands from the plant’s irritating sap. Water the plant thoroughly 12 to 24 hours prior to division; this hydrates the roots, making removal easier and reducing stress.
Gently remove the peace lily from its current pot. For plastic containers, lightly squeeze the sides to loosen the root ball; for rigid pots, run a knife around the inner edge. Once out, carefully loosen the soil from around the root ball by gently teasing or massaging the roots. This step helps visualize the natural divisions within the plant.
Observe the root ball for natural clumps of leaves, each with its own roots, often called “suckers” or “offsets.” These are the sections to separate. Carefully pull or cut these divisions apart, ensuring each has a healthy cluster of roots and at least a few leaves. If the root ball is dense, use a clean, sharp knife to cut through intertwined roots.
After separating divisions, prepare new pots appropriately sized for each section; pots slightly larger than the new root ball are preferred. Fill each pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix, suitable for houseplants. Place each divided peace lily into its pot, spreading the roots gently, then fill around the roots with more potting mix, ensuring the plant is at its previous depth.
Aftercare for New Peace Lily Plants
Once potted, thorough watering helps the soil settle around the roots and encourages initial establishment. Allow water to drain completely from the pot’s drainage holes, discarding any excess water in the saucer to prevent root rot. This initial watering helps reduce transplant shock and provides essential hydration.
Place the newly potted peace lilies in bright, indirect light, away from direct sunlight which can scorch leaves. Maintain stable room temperatures (15-25°C) and protect them from sudden drafts or extreme temperature fluctuations. A consistent environment supports recovery and new growth.
Peace lilies appreciate high humidity, especially beneficial for newly propagated plants under stress. To increase humidity, place pots on a pebble tray filled with water, ensuring the pot bottom does not sit directly in water. Temporary wilting may occur in the days or weeks following division, which is a normal response to the disturbance.
Continue to monitor the soil moisture, allowing the top inch or two of the potting mix to dry out slightly before watering. Avoid overwatering, as peace lilies are susceptible to root rot in soggy conditions. With consistent care and patience, new growth should emerge, indicating the successful establishment of your new peace lily plants.