The best peace lily fertilizers can make your indoor space the epitome of natural allure. However, without specific care and the most effective fertilizers, getting them to bloom to their full potential can turn out to be something of a challenge.
Fertilizer happens to be just one of the factors that Peace Lilies need to flourish; moisture, soil, light, and temperature are the others.
Here I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience of trialing and using the best Peace Lily Fertilizers currently available on the market based on my personal experience as a gardener. Plus, I will also show you how and when to use them to achieve optimal results.
Best Fertilizers For Peace Lilies
If you’re in a hurry and need to grab the best fertilizer for your peace lily, then here are my top picks at a glance.
Best Ready-to-Use Fertilizer
Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food 1-1-1
Fast-acting 1-1-1 fertilizer for Peace Lilies that can be pumped directly onto the soil or diluted in water.
Best Slow Release Fertilizer
Jobe’s Houseplant Fertilizer Spikes 13-4-5
Pre-measured fertilizer spikes, that are easy to use and last up to 8 weeks.
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Choosing Fertilizer for Peace Lilies
Peace lilies aren’t actual lilies despite the similar eye-catching white flower. In fact, I’ll go a step further and let you into a secret that the white flower on a peace lily is not actually a flower…it’s a type of sheath called a spathe. The flowers are the tiny orange or green buds (spadix) forming the spike.
Many gardening writers suggest a 10-10-10 fertilizer and there’s no doubt it’s a great option if used sparingly. In my experience, I prefer to use a mild 1-1-1 fertilizer once a month or I use a 13-4-5 fertilizer spike for convenience and they work very well with peace lilies.
With this in mind in some ways, we can let go of the idea of a high phosphorus and potassium fertilizer to encourage huge blooms and focus on providing the right environment to encourage flowering. The plant needs medium light, consistently moist soil, but not wet, and avoid using tap water due to the chloride, or chloramine. Use rainwater or filtered water instead.
Understanding Fertilizer Ratio N-P-K
Although plants generally require a whole range of nutrients, there are three which are most important in order for plants to thrive:
Nitrogen: The most important nutrient for plants, nitrogen is required for plants to be able to generate energy by means of photosynthesis. The element is a component of chlorophyll, the characteristic green pigment that gives leaves their color and which plays a key role in the process.
Nitrogen is also a component of Adenosine 5-Triphosphate (ATP) used by plants to deposit the energy gained from photosynthesis in their cells, enabling them to grow.
Overall, this nutrient is responsible for enabling your peace lily and other flowering plants to develop lush green and healthy foliage.
Phosphorus: Another key nutrient, phosphorus also shows up in plant DNA and ATP.
It also makes an appearance in RNA which is used by plants to interpret the genetic code in their DNA. As a result of this process, the plant produces biochemicals that will influence the quantity of the seeds it is able to produce and its structure.
Phosphorus is also responsible for enabling your flowering plants to blossom beautifully, produce healthy fruit and seeds, grow a robust root system, and develop healthy stalks.
Potassium: This mineral is mainly responsible for the production of starch and protein in plants as well as their respiration. It helps them develop robust root systems, conserve energy, produce cellulose, and protect them against adverse weather, pests, and diseases.
Potassium is also responsible for maintaining the water pressure in cells (known as turgor) which in turn prevents wilting and dehydration.
Balanced Fertilizer
Most fertilizers show a set of figures which represent the proportion of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) contained within the product.
Those which have a higher proportion of nitrogen can be used to ensure richly colored foliage and to forestall chlorosis, i.e., yellowing leaves which are a symptom of nitrogen deficiency.
Fertilizers that are high in phosphorus can be used to encourage fruit production or flowering.
Products high in potassium, on the other hand, can be used to correct slow plant growth and protect against external stressors.
A balanced fertilizer, however, is a product that has the three primary nutrients in equal proportion and is ideal for peace lilies.
Types of Fertilizer
The ratio of macronutrients your product contains is just one part of the equation. You will also need to decide whether you wish to administer the nourishment it provides instantly or over time. The three main categories of fertilizer to consider are:
Fertilizer Granules
Products in this category offer a slow release of nutrients that need to be mixed with the soil or simply sprinkled over the area through which the plant’s roots extend and then activated with water.
They are often preferred for their ease of application and storage. However, it is worth noting that the concentration of nutrients may not be evenly distributed in a product as it may vary per pellet.
Fertilizer Spikes
Slightly more expensive than granules or liquid fertilizer, but easier to store, spikes are an ideal solution for a mess-free approach to fertilizing.
Using these products also eliminates the need for you to fertilize frequently. Simply punch a hole in the soil and push them down with your finger. Depending on what type of spike you purchase, they will last 6-8 weeks in normal conditions.
Liquid Fertilizer
An especially popular option when a fast-acting feed is required, products in this category can be applied to the soil or the leaves of a plant.
Liquid fertilizers have the added advantage of being capable of providing even quantities of nutrients with each application since they are available either as a ready-to-use formula or as a concentrated liquid that needs to be first diluted with water.
The downside of liquid fertilizers is that they need to be applied more often due to their fast-acting nature and they are prone to run-off. This can be hazardous to nearby water sources if contaminated with said runoff.
Synthetic Vs Organic
Synthetic fertilizers are manufactured using chemicals with the aim of providing concentrated versions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Those of the organic variety, on the other hand, are made using natural plant or animal-based matter such as fish meal, bone meal, guano, kelp, or manure.
Although in some cases they may act somewhat slower compared to synthetic fertilizers, they are considered to be a more environmentally friendly option. They can also work out to be more expensive compared to the former.
5 Best Peace Lily Fertilizers Reviews
Amongst the dozens of houseplant fertilizers I have trialed there are plenty of very good products, that contain a well-balanced N-P-K ratio for most houseplants. All of the items on my shortlist are more than suitable for growing beautiful luscious vegetation and supporting the growth of the peace lily flower.
I have separated them into three main decision-making categories. The best ready-to-use peace lily fertilizer, the best water-soluble concentrate, and the best organic product for dressing or potting on.
Pros
- Ideal nutrient balance for Peace Lilies
- Provides instant nourishment and fast results
Cons
- Fertilizing according to the manufacturer’s instructions may be excessive for Peace Lilies
This ready-to-use liquid feed from Miracle-Gro is not only perfect for regular feeding but also ideal for perking up lackluster peace lilies which need an instant nutritive hit.
With an NPK ratio of just 1-1-1, this formula is suitable for feeding as often as your plants need it. It’s not just for Peace Lilies either, use it for all your other houseplants too, from light feeders such as succulents to indoor plants with more demanding care needs such as Monstera and Calathea.
Although the manufacturer does state it can be added directly to the soil, I have found that it works best when diluted especially when used with peace lilies despite its rather mild concentration of nutrients.
How to Use
Simply mix four drops with one quart of water as required and apply taking special care to ensure the excess fluid will be drained out leaving the fertilizer to work its magic.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use product, then a controlled-release fertilizer is perfect, and that’s what you’re getting with Jobe’s Houseplant Fertilizer Spikes. I’ve used them consistently over the past three years and have been pleased with the results.
First of all, the design of the spike makes it incredibly simple to use – all you need to do is push the spikes directly into the soil around your plants. There’s no measuring or mixing required, just pull one out of the back of the packet and use it.
Each spike is pre-measured with a 13-4-5 NPK ratio, providing a good level of nitrogen to promote healthy glossy foliage. Each spik lasts around 8 weeks, depending on how often you water the plant. The less you water the longer the spike lasts, as they essentially dissolve over time.
The first time I used them I went too far and put two spikes into a 6-inch pot, which resulted in mild burn around the tips of the leaves. So I recommend you follow the dosage I use:
- >8-inch pot 1 stick
- 8-12-inch pot 2 sticks
- 12-16-inch pot 3 sticks
13-4-5 is a good ratio for any houseplant with leafy growth, and yes that does include Peace Lily. Just for the record Peace lily is not a flowering plant, the white spathe is actually a type of leaf, and the tiny yellow buds are the flowers, so a 13-4-5 is just fine. However, if you do like to grow flowering houseplants such as orchids or violets, then I would recommend using a fertilizer with higher phosphorus and potassium ratio pre-bloom.
How to Use: As you can see from my photographs above, I simply pulled one stick from the packet and pushed it into the potting soil. Use 1 stock for a 6-inch pot, 2 sticks for an 8-inch pot, and 3 sticks for a 12-inch pot. Each stick will last for up to 8 weeks.
Pros
- A controlled release of nutrients with each stick lasting approximately 8 weeks
- Easy to use, no mixing or measuring required
- Odorless, making them perfect for indoor use
Cons
- N-P-K is not ideally suited to flowering plants, such as African Violets and Orchids
Pros
- Liquid formula means that results can be seen faster
- Phosphorous rich to support healthy cell growth and development of spathes
Cons
- Needs to be watered down to avoid over-fertilizing Peace Lilies
Liquid fertilizers are always a great option when it comes to feeding Peace Lilies and this one from Schultz is no exception. Adding this all-purpose feed to your watering can in the correct quantities means you can water and feed in one go and see marked improvements in terms of the health and vibrancy of your indoor plants in days rather than weeks.
I recommend using this feed at half strength right at the start of the growing season to get your Peace Lilies off you a flying start. The higher proportion of phosphorus means you can be sure that cell division and growth are activated in order to promote healthy stems, foliage, and roots and to encourage more of those pure white spathes to bloom.
This fertilizer comes with a handy dropper making measuring easy, mess-free, and precise. And the best part? Once you have added the required amount to your watering can you can be sure there will be no waste since you can use any leftovers to water all of your other houseplants.
How to Use
Add 4 to 7 drops of the concentrated formula to every quart of water in your watering can. Mix well before watering the soil around your Peace Lilies.
Pros
- Impressive growth and vibrant foliage color
Cons
- May exhibit a strong odor straight out of the bottle when in concentrated form
Using fish fertilizer on houseplants is a great way to improve soil nutrients that otherwise become quickly depleted. This liquid feed from GS Plant foods will waste no time in helping you to achieve that thanks to its fast-acting liquid formula.
Although a little on the ‘aromatic’ side, this feed offers a gentle and organic way to add vital nutrients and trace elements to your Peace Lilies feeding schedule. What’s more, the low NPK ratio means that yellowing of leaves and fertilizer burn is out of the window thanks to the avoidance of harmful ingredients since they can be incorporated into your houseplant’s normal watering schedule.
Another great quality of fish fertilizer products is their wide range of fertilizing applications. From indoor plants use to outdoor veggie gardens, flower borders, and flowering trees and shrubs.
How To Use: Add 1 tablespoon per gallon of water. Feed every 2-3 weeks.
Pros
- Water-soluble for immediate nutrients intake
- Multi-purpose for a range of indoor and outdoor growing needs
Cons
- Needs diluting for use on Peace Lilies to avoid leaf and root burn
Next up is an all-purpose water-soluble fertilizer from JR Peters. As the name suggests, it can be used for many fertilizing applications both indoors and out so is a good value solution when you have borders, edibles, trees, and shrubs as well as indoor plants to feed.
This is a fast-acting feed that gets to work straight by absorption by roots through the soil. The result is green, voluminous, lush foliage and blooms galore throughout the growing season.
Just remember when using this fertilizer for Peace Lilies, you’ll need to dilute by at least half as the 20-20-20 NPK ratio may cause root or leaf burn to delicate houseplants.
How To Use: This one comes with a measuring spoon, and you just need to mix one half of a spoonful with one gallon of water. Then apply over the entire plant.
It can be easily combined with regular watering as you need to repeat every 7-10 days to make sure you are providing a consistent flow of nutrients.
Does a Peace Lily Need Fertilizing
Yes, they do. However, they only need feeding during spring and summer during which they should be fed fortnightly. During fall and winter, they should be fed every six weeks.
How to Fertilize Peace Lilies
Using a clean container or watering can carefully measure the amount of fertilizer recommended by the manufacturer. Use a dropper or cap if necessary for accurate measurements. (Depending on the product and your circumstances, you may have to add less.)
The water you use counts as well: peace lilies are sensitive to fluoride and chlorine which can be found in tap water — these minerals may cause the tips of their leaves to turn brown and brittle.
You can use tap water but only after it has been left to stand overnight. Alternatively, you may wish to use filtered water or rainwater. All of these solutions will avoid leaf discoloration. I prefer to use tepid or room temperature water.
Make sure the plastic container or pot has drainage holes to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged resulting in yellowing drooping leaves, and mushy roots.
How Often to Fertilize Your Peace Lily
Peace lilies do not require constant feeding and as a result, should often be fed every other watering session.
Overfeeding may cause brown spots and where possible balanced fertilizers or those rich in phosphorus should be used.
Signs of Peace Lily Fertilizer Burn
The most common symptom of too much fertilizer is Peace Lily leaves that become brown at the tips. If left untreated, this can affect the rest of the leaf resulting in brown foliage.
Moderation is key when fertilizing your peace lily. Applying overly generous quantities or fertilizing your plant too frequently should be avoided. Like I said earlier, remember to water in between feeding to avoid fertilizer build-up. The salts left behind from fertilizer products will cause fertilizer burn.
Verdict: Best Peace Lily Fertilizer
So, now the decision-making is handed over to you. Choose Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food for an instant boost of nutrients for your Peace Lilies. The gentle 1-1-1 NPK ratio can be added to water and applied as you water and is versatile enough to use for all other houseplant feeding needs too.
If you are looking for an all-purpose fertilizer that you can use indoors and out, then buy Shultz Liquid Plant Food. This concentrated formula will need diluting at least by half for your Peace Lilies but is also suitable for all other indoor plants too.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for an organic fertilizer for your Peace Lily, I invite you to buy Down to Earth Kelp meal that promotes strengthened roots and stems and soil that is better aerated and nourished. This gentle, all-natural granular formula with its mild NPK ratio, means less chance of leaf and root burn or over-fertilizing.
Best Ready-To-Use Fertilizer
Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food 1-1-1
An easy-to-use and fast-acting 1-1-1 fertilizer that should be diluted in water for gentle Peace Lilies or can be pumped directly onto the soil for other houseplants.
Best Liquid Concentrate Fertilizer
Schultz All Purpose Liquid Plant Food 10-15-10
Easy to use liquid concentrate that can be used every time you water your plants. Also suitable for outdoor plants.
Best Organic Dressing
Down to Earth Kelp Meal 1-0.1-2
An organic, slow-release fertilizer to provide Peace Lilies with potassium to improve foliage and roots.
