Why Are My Peace Lily Flowers Turning Green?

Observing a peace lily’s iconic white blooms gradually shift to green can be confusing for any plant owner. This color change, however, is a common and often natural occurrence. Understanding the reasons behind this transformation is the first step in knowing how to respond and manage it.

Why Peace Lily Flowers Turn Green

The most common reason for green flowers is the natural aging process. What we perceive as the flower is a modified leaf called a spathe, which attracts pollinators to the actual small flowers on the central spike, or spadix. Once this job is done, the spathe transitions back to a more leaf-like state.

As the spathe ages, it produces more chlorophyll, the pigment that makes leaves green. This allows the aging bloom to contribute to photosynthesis and generate energy for the plant. This process shows the spathe has fulfilled its primary reproductive purpose and is now adapting to support the plant’s overall health.

Light exposure also plays a significant role. Too much direct sunlight can cause spathes to turn green more quickly as the plant produces more chlorophyll for protection. Conversely, very low light conditions can also result in greener blooms, as the plant tries to maximize its photosynthetic capabilities in a less-than-ideal environment.

Over-fertilizing with a nitrogen-rich formula encourages foliage growth and can cause white spathes to turn green. An excess of certain nutrients can alter the soil’s composition and affect flower color. This is why following a balanced fertilizing schedule is important.

Managing Green Peace Lily Flowers

When you notice a spathe has turned green, you have a couple of options for how to proceed. The choice depends on your preference and goals for the plant’s energy allocation. One approach is to simply leave the green bloom on the plant.

This hands-off method is not harmful and allows the plant to naturally redirect its resources. The green “flower” is actively contributing to photosynthesis and will eventually yellow and then turn brown, at which point it can be easily removed.

Alternatively, you can choose to prune the green flower. By removing the aging spathe and its stalk, you encourage the peace lily to channel its energy toward producing new leaves and, eventually, new white blooms. This is a common practice that can stimulate more vigorous growth.

To prune the flower correctly, locate the stem from which it grew and follow it down to the base of the plant. Using a clean, sharp pair of scissors, make a clean cut as close to the base as possible without damaging the surrounding leaves.

How to Encourage New White Blooms

To promote the growth of new, vibrant white spathes, focusing on the plant’s overall care routine is important. A mature, healthy plant is more likely to flower consistently. Ensuring the following optimal conditions will give your peace lily the best chance to produce beautiful white flowers.

• Provide proper light: Peace lilies flourish in bright, indirect sunlight. This gives them enough energy for robust growth and blooming without scorching their leaves.
• Use correct watering techniques: Wait until the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch before watering again. This prevents both overwatering and underwatering, which can inhibit flowering. Use a pot with adequate drainage holes.
• Fertilize during the growing season: In spring and summer, use a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half-strength every few weeks. This provides the nutrients needed for flower production without causing green blooms.
• Be patient: If your plant is young or has recently been stressed by repotting or a change in environment, it may need time to establish itself before it begins to flower prolifically.