How To Save A Sunburnt Peace Lily Wallisii

You love your Peace Lily Wallisii, and why wouldn't you? Its graceful appearance and air-purifying abilities make it a beloved addition to many homes. But oh no, the sun got a bit too friendly with your plant, and now it's looking crispy and sad. Don't worry, though—your Peace Lily can bounce back with a little TLC.

In this article, we'll walk through everything you need to know to revive a sunburnt Peace Lily Wallisii. From identifying the signs to adjusting its environment and nurturing it back to health, we've got you covered. Let's dive in and bring your leafy friend back to its verdant glory.

Identifying Sunburn on Your Peace Lily

First things first, let's make sure sunburn is really what's ailing your Peace Lily. These plants, native to the shaded floors of tropical forests, aren't big fans of direct sunlight. When they get too much sun, they show some telltale signs:

• Brown or scorched leaf tips: The tips of the leaves may turn brown or appear burnt. This is often one of the first signs of sun damage.
• Yellowing leaves: While yellow leaves can indicate several issues, in the context of sunburn, it usually affects the leaves exposed directly to the sun.
• Crispy, dry texture: Affected leaves might feel dry and crispy to the touch.
• Leaf curling: The leaves may start to curl as they struggle to retain moisture.

If your Peace Lily is exhibiting these symptoms, chances are it's gotten a bit too much sun. But don't panic—recognizing the problem is the first step to fixing it.

Moving Your Peace Lily to a Safer Spot

Now that you've identified the issue, it's time to act. The first thing you should do is move your Peace Lily to a spot where it won't receive direct sunlight. But where exactly should it go?

Peace Lilies thrive in bright, indirect light. Think of a north-facing window or a spot a few feet back from a sunnier window. If you're unsure about the lighting in your home, try this simple test: place your hand between the plant and the light source. If you see a distinct shadow, the light might be too strong. Ideally, the shadow should be soft and diffused.

If your home doesn't have a suitable spot, consider using sheer curtains to filter the light or position the plant near other taller plants for shade. Just remember, moving it to the right spot is crucial for its recovery.

Pruning Damaged Leaves

Next up is pruning. While it might feel a little scary to snip away at your plant, removing damaged leaves is essential for its recovery. Here's how to do it:

• Use clean, sharp scissors: This helps prevent any potential infection.
• Cut close to the base: Trim the affected leaves as close to the base as possible without cutting into the main stem.
• Remove only the damaged parts: If some leaves are only partially damaged, you can trim off the brown tips instead of removing the entire leaf.

Pruning not only helps your Peace Lily look better but also allows it to focus its energy on new growth. Plus, it can prevent the spread of any potential diseases that might take advantage of the weakened areas.

Watering Wisely

Peace Lilies are pretty vocal about their water needs—they droop dramatically when thirsty and perk right back up after a drink. However, sunburnt leaves might not respond as well to water, so you'll need to adjust your watering routine.

Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water. It's crucial to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, as overwatering can lead to root rot.

If you've moved your plant to a less sunny spot, it might require less water than before. Keep an eye on the soil and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Remember, it's better to err on the side of under-watering than over-watering.

Boosting Humidity

Peace Lilies love humidity, which makes sense considering their tropical origins. If your home is on the dry side, especially during winter months, it might be contributing to your plant's woes.

Here are some easy ways to increase humidity around your Peace Lily:

• Group your plants: Placing your plants together can create a mini microclimate with higher humidity.
• Use a humidifier: This is particularly helpful in dry climates or during winter when indoor heating can dry out the air.
• Mist the leaves: Lightly misting the leaves can provide a temporary humidity boost. Just be careful not to overdo it, as too much moisture on the leaves can invite fungal issues.
• Try a pebble tray: Place a tray filled with pebbles and water under the plant pot. As the water evaporates, it increases the humidity around the plant.

Increasing humidity can help your Peace Lily recover from sunburn and thrive in its new environment.

Feeding Your Peace Lily

While your Peace Lily is recovering, you might wonder if it needs some extra nutrients. Generally, Peace Lilies aren't heavy feeders, but a little boost can help them bounce back from stress.

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Apply it every 6-8 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing.

Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil, causing more harm than good. If you're unsure, it's better to under-fertilize than to risk fertilizer burn.

Repotting: A Fresh Start

If your Peace Lily has been in the same pot for a while, repotting might give it a fresh start. Over time, soil can become compacted and lose its ability to retain moisture and nutrients effectively.

When repotting, choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix, ideally formulated for houseplants. Here's a simple process to follow:

• Water the plant: This helps loosen the soil and makes it easier to remove the plant from its pot.
• Gently remove the plant: Hold the plant by the base near the soil and carefully pull it out.
• Loosen the roots: Gently tease apart any tightly packed roots.
• Place in the new pot: Position the plant in the center of the new pot and fill it with fresh soil, leaving about an inch of space from the rim.
• Water thoroughly: Give it a good drink to help the soil settle.

Repotting provides your Peace Lily with new nutrients and better drainage, helping it recover and grow strong.

Monitoring for Pests and Diseases

While dealing with sunburn, keep an eye out for pests and diseases. Stressed plants are more susceptible to these issues, and you don't want your Peace Lily to face additional challenges.

Common pests that might bug your Peace Lily include spider mites, aphids, and scale. Regularly inspect the leaves and stems for any signs of infestation, such as webbing or sticky residue. If you notice any pests, you can try:

• Wiping the leaves: Use a damp cloth to wipe off pests and residue.
• Insecticidal soap: Apply according to the instructions on the label, focusing on affected areas.
• Neem oil: This natural insecticide can be effective against a range of pests.

Additionally, watch for signs of fungal diseases, such as leaf spots or mildew. Good air circulation and avoiding water on the leaves can help prevent these issues.

Patience and Observing Progress

Finally, be patient. Plants, just like us, need time to heal. Keep an eye on your Peace Lily's progress and make any necessary adjustments along the way.

New growth is a good sign that your plant is on the road to recovery. It might take a few weeks or even a couple of months for your Peace Lily to fully bounce back, but with consistent care and attention, it will reward you with lush green leaves once again.

Remember, every plant is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Don't be afraid to experiment a little and find what suits your Peace Lily best.

Final Thoughts

Reviving a sunburnt Peace Lily Wallisii isn't an overnight process, but with the right care and environment, your plant can definitely make a comeback. From adjusting its light conditions to ensuring it has the right amount of water and humidity, every small step you take will help in its recovery.

At Cafe Planta, we're here to support your plant parenting journey. Whether you're looking for new plants or need some advice, feel free to reach out to us via email or follow us on Instagram for more tips and inspiration. We're excited to help you create a thriving green space in your home!