Peace lilies are elegant, beautiful and a tiny bit dramatic when they’re thirsty.
These beauties are usually easy to get along with, but what happens when their green leaves turn black?
Why are your peace lily leaves turning black?
There are a few culprits behind black peace lily leaves.
Improper watering
Watering a peace lily properly is a fine art.
Too much or too little watering is a fine line.
Blackened leaves on your peace lily plant may be a cry for help (or water, in this case).
Poor water quality
Tap water can be a sneaky villain because it can contain chlorine and other chemicals.
Those black peace lily leaves might be your plant saying, “This water is yuck!”
Unsuitable lighting
Do you keep your peace lily indoors, but in the dark?
Or is it outside under direct sunlight?
Even though peace lilies can stay outdoors, keeping them under bright, indirect light is best.
Pest infestation
Look out for bugs that might turn your peace lily’s leaves into a snack.
There may be fungus gnats, spider mites, mealybugs and scale insects munching on your peace lily.
You can usually treat them by flushing out the leaves with a strong jet of water or applying some neem oil.
Fungal infections and bacterial diseases
Keep an eye out for weird spots or patches that can indicate your peace lily plant has caught something icky.
Nip it in the bud with some fungicide and extra TLC.
How to prevent peace lily leaves turning black
Unfortunately, you can’t make a peace lily turning black go back to its original state.
But you can try and save part of the plant.
You’ll need to take more care than when treating brown leaf tips on a peace lily.
Learn how to water your peace lily properly
Peace lilies aren’t super thirsty plants — they’re drama queens, but they’re not thirsty.
Let the top inch of soil dry out before giving them a drink.
Alternatively, stick your finger in the soil — if it’s dry up to your first knuckle, it’s time to water your peace lilies.
Check the peace lily pot, too, because it might not have enough drainage holes.
Be picky with the type of water you use
Treat your peace lily to the good stuff.
Use filtered or distilled water to prevent leaf burn from possible chemical imbalance due to tap water.
Choose a suitable environment
Peace lilies thrive in places that mimic their natural habitat — the tropical rainforest.
Find a sweet spot with bright, indirect sunlight indoors or on your porch.
Choosing quality fertiliser for your peace lily soil is also important.
Check for pests and fungal infections
Regularly inspect your peace lily for pests and fungal diseases.
Look for unwelcome visitors under its lush green foliage and along the stems.
Address any infestations with insecticidal soap or a homemade solution.
Inspect the peace lily flowers and roots
Root rot can be a silent killer.
You may need to remove your peace lily from its pot and inspect its delicate roots.
A healthy root system should be firm and white, so remove any mushy, black or smelly roots with clean gardening scissors.
If the peace lily roots are damaged, it might be time to propagate it and start fresh.
You should also check if its potting soil should be changed or if it’s time to repot your peace lily.
FAQs About Peace Lily Leaves
How do I know if a peace lily is dying?
If your peace lily is yellowing, its flowers wilting and not sprouting any new growth, it might be a cry for help.
Check the roots for rot and ensure your peace lily is getting the right care.
If everything looks in order, it might be at the end of its life cycle.
That’s okay! It’s just how nature is.
Should you spray water on peace lily leaves?
Yes! Peace lilies enjoy a good misting every now and then.
Just make sure it’s not soaking and can dry out to avoid unwanted fungal guests.
How much sunlight does a peace lily need?
Bright, indirect sunlight is the key.
Around 6–8 hours a day helps peace lilies grow without risking any sunburn.
Be-leaf in yourself
Even if you’ve struggled and a few leaves have turned to the dark side, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed as a plant parent.
Even seasoned gardeners have had their share of peace lily plant dramas and dilemmas.
Embrace these moments, and remember that plants go through tough times but can bounce back with a bit of love and care.