The answer is no. Peace lilies cannot be fully submerged in water for long periods of time. They are not aquatic plants and will eventually suffocate and rot if kept underwater. Peace lilies are tropical plants that thrive in moist but well-drained soil and indirect sunlight. In this article, you will learn more about the proper care and maintenance of peace lilies, as well as the reasons why they should not be submerged in water.
Peace lilies are members of the Araceae family, which includes many other popular houseplants such as philodendrons, anthuriums, and monstera. These plants have a special adaptation called aerenchyma, which are air-filled spaces in their stems and roots that allow them to survive in low-oxygen environments.
However, this does not mean that peace lilies can live underwater. Aerenchyma only provide a temporary solution for oxygen deprivation. If the plants are exposed to waterlogged conditions for too long, they will not be able to perform photosynthesis and respiration properly, and they will eventually die.
Some signs that your peace lily is suffering from overwatering or submersion are:
Yellowing or browning of the leaves
Drooping or wilting of the stems and flowers
Soft or mushy roots
Foul odor from the soil or water
Fungal or bacterial infections
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should remove your peace lily from the water immediately and check the roots for damage. Cut off any rotten or diseased parts and repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil. You may also need to reduce the watering frequency and increase the light exposure to help the plant recover.
Peace lilies are easy to grow and care for, as long as you follow some basic guidelines. Here are some tips to keep your peace lily healthy and happy:
Water your peace lily when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering or underwatering, as both can cause stress and damage to the plant. A good rule of thumb is to water once a week, but this may vary depending on the season, the pot size, and the humidity level. You can also use a moisture meter or a finger test to check the soil moisture.
Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater to water your peace lily. Tap water may contain chlorine, fluoride, or other chemicals that can harm the plant. If you have to use tap water, let it sit overnight to allow the chlorine to evaporate. You can also add some lemon juice or vinegar to lower the pH of the water, as peace lilies prefer slightly acidic conditions.
Place your peace lily in a bright spot away from direct sunlight. Peace lilies are shade-loving plants in their native habitats, but they need some indirect light to produce flowers and grow well indoors. Too much sun can scorch the leaves, while too little light can cause the plant to become leggy and weak. A north or west-facing window is ideal for peace lilies. You can also use artificial lights or a sheer curtain to provide the right amount of light.
Fertilize your peace lily once a month during the spring and summer, when the plant is actively growing and flowering. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength, and apply it after watering to avoid burning the roots. Do not fertilize in the fall and winter, when the plant is dormant or resting. Too much fertilizer can cause salt buildup in the soil and leaf tip burn.
Repot your peace lily every two to three years, or when the roots start to outgrow the pot. Peace lilies like to be slightly root-bound, but they will eventually need more space and fresh soil to grow. Choose a pot that is one or two sizes larger than the current one, and use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Gently loosen the root ball and remove any dead or damaged roots. Place the plant in the new pot and fill it with soil, leaving some space at the top for watering. Water thoroughly and place the pot in a shaded area for a few days to allow the plant to adjust.
Prune your peace lily regularly to remove any dead or damaged leaves, stems, or flowers. This will improve the appearance and health of the plant, and encourage new growth and blooming. Use a sharp and sterile pair of scissors or pruning shears, and make clean cuts at the base of the unwanted parts. You can also trim the leaves to shape the plant or remove any brown tips. Dispose of the cuttings properly and wash your hands after pruning, as peace lilies contain a toxic sap that can irritate the skin and eyes.
Peace lilies are beautiful and easy-to-care-for plants that can brighten up any indoor space. However, they are not suitable for submerging in water, as they will suffocate and rot. To keep your peace lily healthy and happy, you need to provide it with the right amount of water, light, fertilizer, and pruning. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your peace lily for many years to come.
