The peace lily (Spathiphyllum) is a popular houseplant, recognized for its elegant appearance and ease of care. Native to tropical regions, it thrives indoors, making it a common choice for adding greenery to living spaces. Its presence can enhance the ambiance of a bedroom.
Why a Peace Lily Belongs in Your Bedroom
Peace lilies offer several advantages for a bedroom environment. They help filter indoor air pollutants. Studies, including NASA’s Clean Air Study, indicate peace lilies absorb common volatile organic compounds such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air. This air-purifying capability contributes to a healthier breathing environment, particularly beneficial in a space dedicated to rest.
Beyond air purification, the peace lily enhances a bedroom’s visual appeal with its deep green foliage and distinctive white spathes. These spathes are modified leaves that enclose the actual flower structure. Their graceful form and tranquil white color foster a calming and serene atmosphere.
Peace lilies also release moisture into the air through transpiration. This natural humidifying effect can slightly increase humidity levels in a room, which may offer benefits in dry climates or during drier seasons. Increased humidity can potentially help alleviate issues like dry skin or irritated respiratory passages.
The presence of plants in living spaces has been linked to psychological benefits. Having a peace lily can promote a connection to nature indoors, which may help reduce stress and encourage a more relaxed state, supporting a restful environment.
Are Peace Lilies Safe for Bedrooms
Peace lilies contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals in all parts of the plant. If ingested, these crystals can cause immediate irritation. Symptoms include oral pain, burning or tingling sensations in the mouth, and swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat. Drooling, difficulty swallowing, or stomach upset may occur. While ingestion is not life-threatening, it can cause significant discomfort.
For homes with pets or young children, place the peace lily where it cannot be easily reached. This prevents accidental ingestion and irritation. Skin irritation from handling the plant is rare, but sensitive individuals might consider wearing gloves.
Keeping Your Bedroom Peace Lily Healthy
Maintaining a peace lily’s health involves specific care practices. Peace lilies prefer low to medium, indirect light, mimicking their natural forest floor habitat. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, leading to browning and stress.
Watering is crucial. Peace lilies visibly droop when they need water, a clear signal they are thirsty. They typically perk up quickly after being watered. Water when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry, allowing excess water to drain to prevent root rot. Overwatering can be more detrimental than slight underwatering.
Peace lilies thrive in consistent room temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18-27°C), which aligns with typical bedroom conditions. They also appreciate higher humidity. To increase humidity in a dry bedroom, place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, ensuring the pot does not sit directly in the water, or use a room humidifier.
Peace lilies are not heavy feeders and benefit from fertilizing sparingly. During their active growing season in spring and summer, a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer can be applied once every four to six weeks. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the fall and winter months when growth slows. Over-fertilization can lead to nutrient burn, visible as crisp leaf edges or yellowing.
Regularly inspecting your plant for common pests like spider mites, mealybugs, or aphids helps address issues early. These pests often appear when humidity is too low or plants are stressed. Prompt action, such as wiping leaves or using insecticidal soap, can manage infestations.
Ideal Placement for Your Peace Lily
Strategic placement of your peace lily within the bedroom can optimize its growth and contribution to the room’s atmosphere. For optimal light, position the plant near a north-facing window or a few feet away from an east or west-facing window. This ensures it receives adequate filtered light, avoiding direct sun exposure which can harm its foliage.
Aesthetically, peace lilies serve as elegant decorative elements. They can be placed on a nightstand, dresser, or bookshelf, or used as a floor plant in a larger pot, depending on the plant’s size and the room’s layout. Their lush green leaves and white spathes complement various interior designs, adding a touch of natural serenity.
Ensure the plant is in an area with good air circulation. Avoid direct drafts from heating or cooling vents, or frequently opened windows. Sudden temperature fluctuations or consistent drafts can stress the plant.