Brown Peace Lily Leaves: Causes and Solutions
Brown leaves on a peace lily plant can be a distressing sight for plant owners. After all the time and effort spent caring for the plant, it can be frustrating to see the leaves begin to turn brown and show signs of stress. However, there are several causes for this issue, and with the right care and attention, it is possible to get the plant back to good health.
In this article, readers will learn about the various reasons why peace lily leaves turn brown, including overwatering and underwatering, as well as other factors that can contribute to the problem. The article will also provide tips on how to care for a peace lily to prevent brown leaves from occurring, and whether or not it is necessary to cut off brown leaves.
Key Takeaways
- Peace lily leaves turning brown can be a sign of stress and various factors can contribute to the issue.
- Proper care and attention can help prevent brown leaves from occurring, including avoiding overwatering and providing adequate light.
- While it may be tempting to cut off brown leaves, it is not always necessary and can depend on the severity of the issue.
Why Peace Lilies Develop Brown Leaves
Improper watering and excessive exposure to direct sunlight are the primary reasons why peace lilies develop brown leaves. Temperature changes, fertilizer issues, and low humidity can also contribute to this problem. While brown leaves cannot be restored, changes in the plant’s care can prevent this issue from occurring in the future.
Common Problems with Peace Lilies and Their Solutions
What Causes Peace Lily Leaves to Turn Brown?
Water Drama
Peace lilies require consistently moist soil that is not too wet or boggy. Over-watering is often the cause of brown leaves in peace lilies. When over-watered, the soil loses pockets of air that the plant needs to breathe, causing it to drown and become unable to transport water to the leaves. Under-watering can also cause brown tips and edges on the leaves, especially around the central supports of each individual leaf. Poor quality water can also cause damage to peace lilies, as they are very chemically sensitive.
How To Correctly Water a Peace Lily
To properly water a peace lily, it is recommended to use a mix of watering from above and below only when the top inch of soil is completely dry. Watering from above involves pouring clean water into the top of the pot until water flows from the drainage holes, while watering from below involves placing the plant in a large tub of clean water. Rainwater, distilled water, or filtered water are the best options for watering peace lilies. Room temperature water should be used, and any saucers or drip trays should be kept empty to avoid rot.
Sun Damage
Peace lilies prefer moderate to bright indirect light and are sensitive to direct sunlight. Sun damage can cause the leaves to crisp up from the tip inwards, shriveling and losing their color. Pale bleached patches that turn a dry, papery brown may also appear.
How To Fix Sun Damaged Peace Lilies
The best option for a sun-damaged leaf is to remove it. Moving the peace lily to a location out of direct sunlight, such as a room with a good-sized southern-facing window, is recommended. The light should be monitored as the seasons change.
Temperature Shock
Sudden heatwaves or cold snaps can cause peace lilies to suffer. Heatwaves can dehydrate the plant quickly, while cold snaps can result in severe damage to the leaves, causing them to wilt and turn black from the tips and margins inwards.
How To Fix Temperature Shock in Peace Lilies
Any badly damaged leaves should be removed to prevent infection. Peace lilies should be kept in a consistently warm environment, with temperatures between 68 and 85°F (20 to 30°C). Overnight dips in temperature are tolerable, but anything below 60°F (15°C) will cause die back.
Inappropriate Fertilization
Peace lilies are sensitive to fertilizer and can be harmed by too much of it. Overuse of fertilizer can result in chemical burns on the roots and leaves, causing the leaves to crisp up from the tips inwards.
How To Fertilize a Peace Lily
Peace lilies require little fertilizer when grown indoors and only need it during the spring. A half-strength dose of balanced liquid fertilizer given once every other month during spring and summer is ideal. If the peace lily is overdosed with fertilizer, excess fertilizer can be dissolved and carried away by flushing the pot with clean, room temperature water.
Low Humidity
Peace lilies prefer high humidity levels, and low humidity can cause brown, crisp leaf tips. This is especially true in homes or offices with strong climate control, as HVAC systems can remove moisture from the air.
How To Fix Low Humidity for a Peace Lily
A humidifier is the most direct way to increase humidity levels around a peace lily. Clustering plants together can also create a micro-jungle that increases local humidity. Moving the peace lily to a humid part of the home, such as a bathroom, is also an option.
Should You Remove Brown Leaves from Your Peace Lily?
Brown leaves on a peace lily can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to direct sunlight. If the entire leaf is brown, it should be removed as it cannot be saved. Brown tips, however, can be left alone if the majority of the leaf is green. Green leaves are vital for the plant to produce energy through photosynthesis, which is necessary for new growth. Leaving brown tips will not harm the plant and can even add to its natural appearance. For a healthy peace lily, it is recommended to remove entirely brown leaves.
How to Determine if a Peace Lily is Over-Watered
Determining if a Peace Lily is over-watered is crucial in maintaining its health. Signs of over-watering include brown, limp, soft, or black leaves that start yellow at the tip and spread down the leaf. Other indicators include a foul smell emanating from the soil, a heavy pot that constantly seeps water from the drainage holes, consistently wet soil, mold or mildew on the soil surface, and heavy infestations of fungus gnats. Regularly checking for these signs can prevent over-watering and ensure the longevity of your Peace Lily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Prevent Brown Tips on Peace Lily Leaves?
To prevent brown tips on peace lily leaves, make sure the plant is not exposed to direct sunlight. Peace lilies prefer bright, indirect light. Overwatering can also cause brown tips, so make sure the soil is not constantly wet and allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
What Causes Peace Lily Leaves to Turn Brown?
Brown leaves on peace lilies can be caused by several factors, including exposure to direct sunlight, overwatering, and underwatering. Brown spots or streaks can also be caused by chemical exposure or pests.
What Is the Best Way to Care for a Peace Lily with Brown Leaves?
To care for a peace lily with brown leaves, remove the affected leaves and adjust the plant’s care routine. Make sure the plant is not exposed to direct sunlight and the soil is not constantly wet. If the brown spots are caused by pests or chemical exposure, treat the plant accordingly.
How Often Should I Water My Peace Lily to Prevent Brown Leaves?
To prevent brown leaves on peace lilies, water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause the soil to become waterlogged, leading to brown tips and spots on the leaves.
Can Yellow Peace Lily Leaves Turn Green Again, or Should They Be Removed?
Yellow peace lily leaves cannot turn green again and should be removed. Yellow leaves are a sign of stress or aging and will not recover. Removing yellow leaves can also improve the plant’s overall appearance.
What Are Some Common Diseases That Cause Brown Leaves on Peace Lilies?
Some common diseases that cause brown leaves on peace lilies include root rot, bacterial leaf spot, and fungal leaf spot. These diseases can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, and high humidity levels. If the brown leaves are caused by a disease, treat the plant accordingly and adjust its care routine to prevent future issues.
Final Thoughts
Peace lilies are a great choice for those new to indoor plants. Their stunning flowers and rich foliage can enhance any space. With proper care, they can thrive for many years, making them a sophisticated and long-lasting addition to any home or office.
