Spathiphyllum

Spathiphyllum is one of the most popular indoor plants, admired for its lush green leaves and white spathe-like flowers. In nature, it grows in wetlands and along rivers in the tropical forests of South America, Polynesia, and the Philippines. Commonly known as “Women’s Happiness” or “Peace Lily,” this plant not only beautifies interiors but also purifies the air. With proper care, it rewards owners with abundant foliage and regular flowering.

Placement

Spathiphyllum prefers diffused light and dislikes direct sunlight. The best places are east- or west-facing windows. On southern windowsills, shading is required to prevent burns, while on the north side, the plant may stretch and flower poorly. Ideally, it should be placed deeper in the room with enough natural light. Drafts should be avoided, as cold air damages the roots.

Watering

Watering plays a key role in Spathiphyllum care. The soil should remain slightly moist but never waterlogged. In spring and summer, water 2–3 times per week; in winter, once every 7–10 days. Lack of moisture causes wilting, while excess leads to root rot. Use soft, room-temperature water. Spathiphyllum also enjoys high humidity: misting the leaves and placing the pot on a tray with wet pebbles is recommended.

Feeding

For active growth and flowering, regular feeding is essential. From March to September, apply fertilizers for flowering plants every two weeks. In winter, reduce feeding to once a month or stop completely, as the plant rests. Over-fertilization can cause leaf burns, so dosage should be followed carefully.

Repotting

Young plants should be repotted annually in spring, while mature plants every 2–3 years. Spathiphyllum prefers a light, fertile soil mix: turf soil, peat, compost, and sand. A drainage layer at the bottom is essential. Choosing a pot too large delays flowering, so it must match the size of the root system.

Temperature

The optimal temperature range is +20…+25 °C. In winter, it can tolerate as low as +16 °C, but below that, it may drop leaves and stop growing. It is not frost-resistant, so avoid cold windowsills or open windows. Prevent sharp temperature fluctuations and cold drafts from air conditioners.

Pruning

Spathiphyllum does not require formative pruning. Only faded flower stalks and old leaves should be removed, allowing the plant to focus energy on new growth. This can be done year-round. With proper care, Spathiphyllum produces new flowers several times a year, especially in spring and summer.

Conclusion

Spathiphyllum is a hardy and elegant indoor plant that thrives in home conditions. It requires moderate watering, high air humidity, regular feeding during the growing season, repotting every few years, and stable temperatures. Removing old leaves and flowers stimulates new buds. Following these simple rules, “Women’s Happiness” or Peace Lily will remain a lasting decoration in your home.