Peace lilies, cherished across UK homes for their elegant white blooms and air-purifying qualities, face a significant threat during the winter months. A leading horticulture expert has pinpointed the single most common error that can cause these tropical plants to wilt or perish entirely in the colder season.
The 'Biggest' Winter Mistake for Peace Lilies
David Denyer, a flower and garden specialist at Eflorist, has issued a crucial warning to plant enthusiasts. He explains that as tropical natives, peace lilies thrive on consistent warmth and are acutely sensitive to temperature fluctuations. The most detrimental mistake, according to Denyer, is placing the plant near windows, doors, or air vents.
"Subjecting these houseplants to drafts can be detrimental to your peace lily's health," Denyer told Express.co.uk. He elaborated that prolonged exposure to low temperatures from chilly drafts will directly cause the plant to wilt and can ultimately lead to its death.
Creating the Ideal Environment
While avoiding cold drafts is paramount, the expert also cautions against the opposite extreme. Placing a peace lily close to radiators or other direct heat sources can be equally damaging. The key to winter survival is maintaining a steady, room-temperature environment away from any extremes.
"A peace lily flower will usually last for a month, or even two, with the proper care, before changing to black or brown," Denyer noted. He reassured owners that a lack of growth or flowering in winter is normal, as this is the plant's natural dormant period. Peace lilies typically bloom in spring and autumn.
Essential Winter Feeding Routine
To ensure vigorous blooms when spring arrives, Denyer emphasises a adjusted feeding schedule. Flowering consumes substantial energy, so during the growing season from April to October, plants should be fed little and often with a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser every few weeks.
In winter, this feeding should be reduced to every four to six weeks to support the plant without overwhelming it during its slower phase. This careful regimen, combined with a draft-free, consistently warm spot, will help your peace lily not just survive, but thrive through the UK winter.
