Do Peace Lilies Need Fertilizer – When To Feed Peace Lily Plants

peace lily
peace lily
(Image credit: Firn)

Peace lilies are so enchanting; it may come as a surprise that they are rugged plants that tolerate a variety of light conditions, including semi-darkness. Peace lilies can even survive a certain amount of neglect at the hands of busy or forgetful indoor gardeners. 

Do peace lilies need fertilizer? Believe it or not, many folks prefer to skip the fertilizer and their peace lily plants do just fine without it. However, fertilizing a peace lily now and then is important if you hope to encourage blooming. Read on to learn more about fertilizer for peace lilies.

When to Feed Peace Lily Plants

Peace lilies aren’t fussy and they really don’t need much fertilizer. The best time to apply peace lily fertilizer is when the plant is activity growing or producing blooms. 

As a general rule, two or three feedings throughout the growing season is plenty. If you choose to feed your plant more often, use a very diluted fertilizer. Avoid overfeeding, as too much fertilizer may create brown spots on the leaves. 

If the flowers are a little green around the gills instead of creamy white, you are probably overdoing the fertilizer. Either cut back or dilute the concentration.

What is the Best Peace Lily Fertilizer?

When it comes to fertilizing a peace lily, any good quality, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer is fine. Look for a product with a balanced ratio, such as 20-20-20, diluted to one-half or one-quarter strength. Be sure to water after feeding your peace lily to distribute the fertilizer evenly around the roots. Never apply fertilizer to dry soil, which may scorch the roots.

Mary H. Dyer
Writer

A Credentialed Garden Writer, Mary H. Dyer was with Gardening Know How in the very beginning, publishing articles as early as 2007.