How To Save A Sunburnt Mauna Loa Peace Lily

Oh no, your Mauna Loa Peace Lily is looking a bit crispy! If you're dealing with a sunburnt plant, you're not alone. These beauties are known for their lush, glossy leaves and elegant white blooms, but they're not big fans of direct sunlight. Don't worry, though—there's hope yet for your sunburnt friend.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to revive your sunburnt Peace Lily. From identifying the damage to creating a recovery plan, you’ll have your plant back to its vibrant self in no time. Let’s get started!

Recognizing Sunburn on Your Peace Lily

First things first, let's identify the symptoms. Sunburn on a Peace Lily usually manifests as brown or bleached patches on the leaves. These spots can be quite large or small, depending on how much sun exposure your plant has endured. In extreme cases, the leaves might curl or become crispy at the edges.

Interestingly, sunburn on plants isn't too different from sunburn on humans. It’s the plant's way of telling you, "I've had too much sun!" While these plants are native to tropical regions, they're accustomed to the dappled sunlight found under the rainforest canopy, not the harsh midday sun.

If your plant is showing signs of sunburn, don't panic. It's essential to act quickly, but there's no need to rush. Assess the damage, take note of which leaves are affected, and get ready to start the healing process.

Moving Your Peace Lily to a Safer Spot

Your sunburnt Peace Lily needs a new home, away from harsh sunlight. These plants thrive in indirect light, making them perfect for rooms with filtered sunlight or areas where they can receive bright but gentle light most of the day. Think north-facing windows or spots with sheer curtains.

It might be tempting to tuck your Peace Lily away in a dark corner, but be careful—too little light can also cause problems, like slow growth and fewer blooms. Finding the right balance is key. You want your plant to be comfortable, like a sun-loving friend under a big beach umbrella, not roasting or shivering.

If you're unsure about the lighting conditions, try moving your plant around a bit. Observe how the light changes in different parts of your home throughout the day. It might take a few tries, but once you find the perfect spot, your plant will thank you with healthier leaves and happy blooms.

Trimming Damaged Leaves

Now that your Peace Lily is safely out of the sun, it's time to give it a little trim. Removing the damaged leaves can help your plant focus its energy on new growth, rather than trying to repair what's beyond saving. Grab a pair of clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, and let's get to work.

When cutting, aim to remove the entire leaf, or at least trim back to a healthy section. Make your cuts just above a leaf node (that's the spot where a leaf or stem grows from the main stalk) to encourage new growth. Don't worry if you're not sure which leaves to cut—just focus on the ones that look the worst.

This step can feel a bit drastic, but it's kind of like getting a haircut to remove split ends. It might look a little sparse at first, but your plant will have a much better chance of bouncing back with healthy, new leaves.

Improving Humidity for Recovery

Peace Lilies love humidity, and increasing the moisture in the air can help your plant recover from sunburn. If your home is on the drier side, consider these simple tricks to boost humidity around your plant:

• Mist the leaves with water regularly, especially if you live in a dry climate.
• Group plants together to create a mini rainforest effect, as they naturally give off moisture.
• Use a pebble tray: Fill a shallow tray with pebbles and water, and place your plant on top. As the water evaporates, it will increase humidity around the plant.
• Invest in a humidifier if you're serious about creating a plant-friendly environment.

Remember, while Peace Lilies love moisture, they don't like sitting in water. Ensure the pot has good drainage and avoid letting the roots sit in excess water, which can lead to root rot—a whole other problem we want to avoid!

Adjusting Your Watering Routine

Speaking of water, let's talk about your watering routine. A sunburnt Peace Lily might need a bit more attention, but overwatering can be just as harmful as underwatering. The trick is to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.

Check the soil regularly, and water when the top inch feels dry to the touch. You can use your finger or a small tool to test the moisture level. When you water, do so thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain out of the pot. This ensures the entire root system gets a good drink.

If your Peace Lily has been sitting in a sunny spot for a while, it might be a bit dehydrated. However, resist the urge to drown it in water. A steady, consistent watering schedule is much more beneficial than sporadic heavy watering.

Feeding Your Peace Lily Back to Health

Once you've got the watering routine down, it's time to think about feeding your plant. A little fertilizer can go a long way in helping your Peace Lily recover and grow strong again. Opt for a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer, and dilute it to half the recommended strength.

Feed your plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) but hold off during fall and winter, when growth slows down. Over-fertilizing can lead to burnt roots and further stress, so less is definitely more in this case.

Think of fertilizer as a multivitamin for your plant. It provides the nutrients it needs to thrive, but too much can overwhelm the system. With the right balance, your Peace Lily will be back to its glossy, green self in no time.

Preventing Future Sunburn

Now that your Peace Lily is on the road to recovery, let's talk prevention. To keep your plant from getting sunburnt again, consider these tips:

• Monitor light levels: Keep an eye on how sunlight moves through your home, and adjust your plant's position as needed.
• Rotate your plant: Give it a quarter turn every week or so to ensure all sides receive even light.
• Use sheer curtains: Filter direct sunlight with lightweight curtains or blinds.
• Consider a plant shelf or stand: Elevate your plant to catch indirect light without exposing it to harsh rays.

By being mindful of your Peace Lily's environment, you can help it thrive and avoid the sunburn drama in the future. Remember, plants are like people—they each have their own preferences and quirks, so a little observation goes a long way.

Creating a Peaceful Environment

While you're at it, why not take a moment to create a peaceful environment for both you and your plant? Peace Lilies are known for their air-purifying qualities, making them a great addition to any relaxing space.

Consider placing your plant in a room where you spend time unwinding, like a living room or bedroom. Pair it with other calming elements, like soft lighting, cozy textures, and maybe a good book or two. Before you know it, you'll have a little oasis that both you and your Peace Lily can enjoy.

Plants have a wonderful way of bringing balance and tranquility to our lives. By caring for them, we're also caring for ourselves, creating a home that's both beautiful and nurturing.

Rejoicing in New Growth

Patience is key when it comes to plant recovery. It might take a little while, but with the right care, your Peace Lily will start to show signs of new growth. Celebrate those little green shoots and fresh leaves—they're a testament to your hard work and dedication.

As your plant recovers, continue to monitor its progress and adjust your care routine as needed. Keep up with the regular watering, feeding, and humidity checks, and soon your Peace Lily will be as lush as ever.

Remember, every plant has its ups and downs. By learning from this experience, you're becoming a more knowledgeable and attentive plant parent. So, give yourself a pat on the back and enjoy the journey!

Final Thoughts

Reviving a sunburnt Mauna Loa Peace Lily might seem like a challenge, but with patience and care, your plant will thrive once again. By giving it the right light, water, and attention, you'll see it bounce back with beautiful, healthy foliage.

At Cafe Planta, we love helping plant lovers care for their green friends. Feel free to reach out with any questions via email or on Instagram. We're here to support you on your plant journey, whether you're just starting out or have a thriving collection. Happy planting!