The other day, a reader reached out with an intriguing observation.
They’d noticed their neighbour displaying beautiful peace lilies not within the cosy confines of their home, but proudly on their front porch.
This observation led to the question: Can peace lilies be planted outside?
While many of us usually associate peace lilies with indoor spaces, it’s worth exploring their potential as an outdoor plant.
Are Peace Lilies Outdoor Plants?
Peace lilies are originally from the tropical rainforests of Central and South America.
In their natural environment, they thrive under the canopy of tall trees, receiving dappled sunlight and consistent moisture.
Peace lilies are typically indoor plants in most climates, but can be cultivated outside under specific conditions.
You’re probably wondering, so when can I put my peace lily outside? Well, we’ve broken it down for you!
Can a peace lily live outside in the summer?
Yes, a peace lily can live outside during the summer months in most places, provided it’s protected from direct sunlight.
Position the peace lily plant in a shaded or partially shaded spot, ensuring it receives indirect sunlight so it won’t get any brown leaf tips.
It’s essential to maintain consistently moist soil, but be wary of over-watering, as this can lead to root rot.
Can a peace lily stay outside in winter?
Peace lilies are generally sensitive to cold temperatures.
If the temperature drops below 10°C (50°F), having peace lilies planted outdoors might not be a good idea.
It’s advisable to bring peace lilies indoors or ensure they are adequately protected from frost and cold winds in areas with harsh winters.
How to Grow a Peace Lily Plant Outside
Transitioning your peace lily plant from a cosy indoor environment to the dynamic outdoors can be rewarding.
Here’s how to do it and properly care for your peace lilies.
Choose the right location
The ideal spot for a peace lily is one that mimics its natural habitat — under the canopy of taller plants.
This means a location with dappled sunlight or partial shade as it is a tropical plant.
Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, so avoid placing it in a location where it will receive intense midday sun.
Prepare the Soil
Peace lilies prefer soil that is well-draining but can retain some moisture.
Consider mixing regular potting soil with a bit of organic matter like compost or coconut coir.
This helps with moisture retention and provides essential nutrients to your outdoor peace lilies.
Have a consistent water routine
Consistency is key when it comes to watering peace lilies.
The soil should remain moist but not overwatered. Overly saturated soil can lead to root rot, a common issue with peace lilies.
During particularly hot and dry spells, you might need to water the base of the plant more frequently.
But always check the soil’s moisture level before you water peace lilies.
A simple touch test — feeling if the top layer of the soil is dry — can guide your watering schedule.
Protection from extremes
While peace lilies can be outside during warmer months, they need protection from extreme conditions.
So providing additional shade can help keep outdoor peace lilies healthy during a heatwave or days with intense sunlight.
Similarly, if a sudden cold spell is in the weather forecast, consider moving your peace lily indoors or covering it with a plant protection fabric.
Pots vs. ground planting
If you aren’t ready to commit to a ground spot, consider growing peace lilies in pots first.
This offers the flexibility of moving the plants around to find their ideal growing location outside.
Make sure that the pot has sufficient drainage holes and is spacious enough to accommodate the plant’s growth.
Hydroponic cultivation
Placing a peace lily grown in water outdoors is possible, but it requires careful monitoring to ensure the plant remains healthy.
As with soil-grown peace lilies, mimicking the plant’s natural tropical habitat is the key to success.
Outdoor environments can introduce contaminants or pests into the water. Regularly check and refresh the water to keep it clean.
Additionally, you can use distilled or purified water when topping up the water of your peace lily plant.
FAQs About Keeping Outdoor Peace Lilies
Can peace lilies grow outside in Australia?
Yes, peace lilies can grow outside in parts of Australia, particularly in the warmer regions like Queensland and Northern New South Wales.
However, they should be sheltered from the intense midday sun and provided with well-draining soil.
Do peace lilies do well outside?
Peace lilies can do well outside and have a long lifespan if given conditions that mimic their natural tropical habitat.
This includes giving them indirect sunlight, consistent moisture and protection from extremes.
Can I put my indoor peace lilies outside?
Yes, but just like repotting peace lilies, you need to make sure they acclimate to their new environment gently.
A potted peace lily can survive outside if it’s placed in an appropriate location, protected from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Make sure your outdoor peace lily plant has adequate drainage to avoid root rot.
What temperature can a peace lily go outside?
Peace lilies prefer temperatures between 18°C (65°F) and 27°C (80°F).
However, they can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) for short periods.
If you’re ever in doubt or the weather becomes too extreme, it’s safe to bring your peace lily back indoors.
Grow it Your Way
Returning to our reader’s observation, it’s obvious that peace lilies are versatile plants that can adapt to indoor and specific outdoor conditions.
These tropical beauties can grace outside spaces with the right precautions and care.
So, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a curious plant enthusiast, you too can find your peace lily flourishing in the embrace of the great outdoors.
