Peace lilies are popular houseplants, often admired for their elegant white spathes and lush green foliage. While these plants generally adapt well to indoor environments, they are quite sensitive to cold temperatures. Exposure to chilly conditions, even for a short period, can lead to significant damage. This article offers guidance on how to assess and save a peace lily that has been affected by cold.
Identifying Cold Damage
A peace lily exposed to cold temperatures often displays distinct visual cues. The leaves may appear droopy or wilted, even with adequate soil moisture. You might also observe darkened, water-soaked spots on the leaves or stems, which can later turn black or brown as the tissue deteriorates. The edges of the leaves might become crispy or shriveled, signaling cellular damage from the cold.
The plant may also exhibit stunted growth or a general unhealthy appearance. Symptoms may not appear immediately, developing over several hours or a day as cold stress impacts the plant.
Immediate Actions for Cold-Affected Peace Lilies
Once you identify cold damage, relocate the peace lily. Move the plant to a warmer, more stable environment, away from drafts or direct cold sources like open windows or air conditioning vents. This prevents further damage and allows the plant to stabilize.
After moving the plant, gently inspect it to gauge the extent of the damage without disturbing it. Resist the urge to prune any affected parts at this initial stage, as the plant needs time to recover from the shock. Avoid sudden temperature changes or excessive watering, which can further shock the plant.
Do not water the peace lily if its soil is already moist. Cold-damaged roots may struggle to absorb water efficiently, and adding more moisture can quickly lead to waterlogged conditions, increasing the risk of root rot.
Nurturing Your Peace Lily Back to Health
Once the peace lily has stabilized in a warmer environment, begin the nurturing process. Carefully prune away any leaves or stems that are clearly dead or severely damaged using clean, sharp scissors. Remove only necrotic tissue, as cutting healthy parts adds stress. Continue to remove new damaged areas as they appear.
Proper watering is paramount during recovery; allow the top inch of soil to dry out completely before watering again. Water thoroughly, allowing excess to drain, to prevent root issues. Consistent moisture without overwatering supports root health.
Place the recovering peace lily in an area that receives bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Peace lilies naturally thrive in humid conditions, so increasing the humidity around your plant can significantly aid its recovery. Increase humidity with a pebble tray, humidifier, or misting.
Maintain a stable room temperature, ideally between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Avoid placing it in areas with fluctuating temperatures. Refrain from fertilizing immediately. Once new growth appears, use a diluted liquid fertilizer sparingly.
Protecting Your Peace Lily from Cold
Preventing future cold damage is simpler than trying to recover a compromised plant. Strategic placement is key; position your peace lily away from drafty windows, exterior doors, and air conditioning vents. These areas expose the plant to sudden temperature drops. Avoid placing it in unheated rooms, especially during colder months.
If you have peace lilies that spend time outdoors during warmer seasons, bring them inside before temperatures consistently drop below 50°F (10°C). Even brief exposure to near-freezing conditions can cause harm. When transporting your peace lily, particularly in cold weather, ensure it is adequately protected from the chill. Wrapping it in paper or a plant sleeve can provide a temporary buffer against the cold.
Monitor indoor temperatures, especially during seasonal changes or thermostat adjustments, to proactively adjust placement or provide protection.