Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) are popular houseplants, appreciated for their elegant white blooms and lush green foliage. When their leaves begin to curl, it often signals the plant is experiencing stress or an environmental imbalance. This curling indicates the plant is attempting to conserve moisture or protect itself from unfavorable conditions.
Common Reasons for Peace Lily Leaf Curling
Underwatering
When a peace lily is underwatered, its leaves curl inward and may become brittle and dry. This reduces the surface area exposed to air, minimizing water loss. The soil might also pull away from the pot edges.
Overwatering
Overwatering can also cause leaves to curl, often accompanied by yellowing foliage and a general drooping appearance. Excessively wet soil deprives roots of oxygen, leading to root rot. Damaged roots cannot effectively absorb water and nutrients, causing symptoms similar to underwatering. The soil will feel consistently soggy and may develop a foul odor.
Low Humidity
Peace lilies originate from tropical rainforests and thrive in humid environments. In dry indoor air, leaves curl to conserve moisture. Dry air accelerates water evaporation from the leaves. If the plant loses water faster than its roots can supply it, leaf edges may also become crispy and brown.
Excessive Light
Too much direct sunlight can scorch peace lily leaves, causing them to curl, turn pale, or develop brown, burnt edges. Curling is a protective measure, as the plant attempts to shield itself from intense light and minimize moisture loss. Peace lilies prefer bright, indirect light, mimicking their natural habitat on the forest floor.
Temperature Extremes
Peace lilies are sensitive to temperature fluctuations and prefer consistent warmth, ideally between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Exposure to excessively cold temperatures, such as drafts, can shock the plant, leading to curled leaves. Extreme heat, like that from radiators or direct sun, can also cause leaves to curl inward to retain moisture.
Pest Infestation
Tiny pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs can cause peace lily leaves to curl. These insects feed on the plant’s sap, leading to nutrient and moisture loss, which results in distorted or curled foliage. Other signs of infestation include fine webbing, sticky residue, or visible insects on the undersides of leaves.
Chemical Sensitivity
Peace lilies can be sensitive to chemicals in tap water, such as chlorine and fluoride. Over time, these chemicals can accumulate in the soil as mineral salts, harming the root system and causing leaf tips or edges to burn or curl.
Solutions for Curling Peace Lily Leaves
To address underwatering, consistently check soil moisture. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring water drains from the pot bottom. Empty the saucer after watering to prevent the plant from sitting in standing water.
For overwatering, allow the soil to dry out significantly before the next watering. If root rot is suspected, remove the plant from its pot, inspect the roots, and trim any mushy, black, or foul-smelling sections. Repot into fresh, well-draining soil, and adjust watering frequency to prevent future issues.
To mitigate low humidity, regular misting of leaves with distilled or filtered water can help, but avoid misting flowers. Placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, ensuring the pot does not sit directly in the water, or using a room humidifier can increase ambient humidity. Grouping plants together also creates a more humid microclimate.
If excessive light is the problem, relocate the peace lily to a spot that receives bright, indirect light, such as a north or east-facing window. If direct sun is unavoidable, use sheer curtains to diffuse the light. This prevents further scorching and curling.
Protect peace lilies from temperature extremes by keeping them away from drafty windows, heating vents, or air conditioning units. Maintain a stable room temperature between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). A consistent environment helps the plant recover from temperature stress.
For pest infestations, regularly inspect your plant, especially the undersides of leaves. Small infestations can be treated by wiping leaves with a damp cloth or using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Isolate infested plants to prevent pests from spreading to other houseplants.
To address chemical sensitivity from tap water, use filtered, distilled, or rainwater for watering. Allowing tap water to sit out for at least 24 hours before use can help dissipate chlorine. This practice reduces harmful chemical buildup in the soil.
Long-Term Care for Healthy Peace Lilies
Long-term care for peace lilies involves consistent practices to prevent leaf curling. Regular watering when the top inch of soil is dry is crucial. Provide bright, indirect light, avoiding direct sun. Maintain consistent humidity, using a humidifier or pebble tray if needed.
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, to prevent nutrient burn or salt buildup. Repot every one to two years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, into a pot with good drainage and fresh, well-draining potting mix. This supports overall plant health.