How to Transplant Peace Lily from Soil to Water

Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) are popular houseplants known for their lush green leaves and elegant white blooms.

While most people grow peace lilies in soil, they can also thrive in water, making them an excellent choice for hydroponic setups or decorative glass containers.

Transplanting a peace lily from soil to water can not only simplify care but also give your home a modern, clean aesthetic. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of successfully transitioning your peace lily from soil to water.

Reasons to Try This Method

Growing a peace lily in water has several benefits:

Minimal Maintenance: Once established, peace lilies grown in water are easier to care for, as you don't have to worry about over or under-watering.
Pest-Free: Soil-borne pests like fungus gnats are no longer a concern when your plant is grown hydroponically.
Elegant Display: Peace lilies in clear glass vases allow you to showcase the roots, creating a striking visual effect that enhances your interior decor.

Now, let’s dive into the steps to transplant your peace lily from soil to water.

Step 1: Prepare the Materials

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

A healthy peaceful lily plant
A glass container or vase (clear glass works best to observe root growth)
Clean, room-temperature water
Scissors or pruning shears
Optional: a mild liquid fertilizer suitable for hydroponic plants

Step 2: Gently Remove the Peace Lily from the Soil

Start by carefully removing your peace lily from its pot. Gently tap the sides of the container to loosen the soil. Hold the base of the plant, close to the soil line, and gently pull it out. Take care not to damage the roots as you remove it from the soil.

Step 3: Wash the Roots

The key to successfully transitioning your peace lily to water is ensuring the roots are thoroughly cleaned. Use lukewarm water to wash away all traces of soil from the roots. You can do this by gently rinsing the roots under running water or soaking them in a bowl of water and swishing them around. Continue washing until the roots are completely free of soil and debris.

Step 4: Prune the Roots (If Necessary)

Once the roots are clean, inspect them for any signs of damage or decay. Use sterilized scissors or pruning shears to trim away any dead or mushy roots. This will encourage new, healthy root growth. If the plant has a particularly dense root system, you can also trim it slightly to prevent overcrowding in the vase.

Step 5: Select a Container

Choose a glass container that’s large enough to accommodate the roots of your peace lily while allowing them to spread out comfortably. The container should hold enough water to fully cover the roots but leave some room above the waterline for the plant’s base.

Step 6: Place the Peace Lily in the Water

Fill your glass container with room-temperature water. Place the peace lily inside, making sure the roots are submerged while keeping the plant’s crown (where the stems meet the roots) above the waterline. This prevents rot and allows the plant to continue growing without damage to the leaves or base.

Step 7: Monitor and Maintain

After transplanting your peace lily to water, it’s important to monitor its progress. Here are a few maintenance tips to ensure a smooth transition:

Change the Water Regularly: To keep your peace lily healthy, replace the water every 1-2 weeks to prevent stagnation and algae growth.
Clean the Container: When changing the water, take the time to clean the container and remove any build-up on the glass.
Fertilize Sparingly: Peace lilies can grow in water with minimal nutrients, but for optimal health, consider adding a few drops of liquid fertilizer to the water every month or two. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can harm the plant.
Indirect Light: Place your peace lily in a spot that receives bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can cause the leaves to scorch.

Step 8: Watch for New Growth

As your peace lily adjusts to its new environment, you should begin to see signs of new growth within a few weeks. The roots will continue to grow and expand in the water, and the leaves will maintain their lush, healthy appearance. Over time, you may even see the plant produce its signature white flowers!

Common Issues to Watch For

While peace lilies adapt well to water, there are a few potential challenges to be aware of:

Root Rot: If the roots are submerged too deeply or the water isn’t changed frequently, root rot can occur. Always ensure the crown stays above the waterline and keep the water fresh.
Yellowing Leaves: If your peace lily’s leaves start to turn yellow, it could be a sign of too much sunlight, poor water quality, or nutrient deficiency. Adjust the plant’s environment and add liquid fertilizer if needed.

Transplanting a peace lily from soil to water is a rewarding project that can elevate your home’s decor while simplifying plant care.

With proper maintenance, your peace lily can thrive in water for years to come, giving you a beautiful, low-maintenance display that’s sure to impress. Follow the steps above, and soon you’ll be enjoying the beauty of your hydroponic peace lily in its new watery home!