Spath Plant Care

Spath plants, short for Spathiphyllum, are commonly known as a peace lily because of its regal white flower. Spath plants are wonderful, low maintenance house plants that can bloom twice a year with appropriate care. There are several varieties of spath plants, but they all have striking white flowers and long, slender, pointed leaves that begin at soil level.

Spath plants will produce more flowers if they're slightly root bound. Only re-pot a spath every two or three years, and then only increase the pot to the next size. Use a general, all-purpose potting soil (the spath is not picky). Spath plants actually do not like to be fertilized much; simply apply a general house plant fertilizer in the spring and again in the fall.

Spath plants are susceptible to root rot, so it is important that you check the soil moisture by sticking your finger down into the soil an inch or two before you add water to the plant. If it feels damp dry, it is time to water. Generally, watering once a week--making sure the soil is thoroughly moist--will do, except when the weather is hot in the summer, then you may need to water mid week also. Spath plants enjoy humidity, but do not like to be misted much on their leaves. Use a damp cloth on the leaves to add humidity and clean dust off of them. Occasionally, give your spath a shower in your shower, just make sure it does not remain in standing water after.

One of the attractions of spath plants is that they thrive in low light and are perfect for areas of your home that may be too dark for other house plants. The leaves will sunburn in direct light. Another indication your spath may be getting too much light is if the outside leaves of the plant start turning yellow. Move your plant to a more filtered-light area.

The spath enjoys the same temperatures you do, though it does not do well if temperatures are below 55 degrees F. Locate your spath plant where it will not have irregular temperature changes from drafts or heat sources.