Peace lilies will be healthier and produce more flowers if they are watered with a simple kitchen scrap item: rice water. According to gardening expert Asiya, who runs the Instagram page Plant Hacks N Beyond, the water left over from rinsing uncooked rice is packed with essential nutrients that peace lilies need, especially during their active summer growth period.
Why Rice Water Works for Peace Lilies
Asiya explained: “Uncooked, washed rice water is my secret weapon. It's packed with nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that your peace lily will love. This trick boosts plant immunity, supports root health, and makes the leaves super shiny.” These three nutrients are vital for plant health: nitrogen promotes glossy leaf development, phosphorus is essential for flower production, and potassium enhances disease resistance and water absorption, which is particularly important in summer.
Feeding peace lilies with rice water provides them with the energy they need during their growing phase, increasing the likelihood of multiple, long-lasting blooms.
How to Use Rice Water Safely
To prepare the fertilizer, set aside the water after rinsing uncooked rice. Let it stand at room temperature for a few hours or overnight to ferment slightly, which breaks down the nutrients for easier absorption. Before watering, dilute one part rice water with four parts plain water. Undiluted rice water is too thick and may clog the soil.
Asiya recommends watering peace lilies with this mixture once a week. She reports: “The results? Healthier, greener leaves and no more browning tips!” It is important to use only uncooked rice water; cooked rice water is more viscous and can suffocate roots or cause blockages.
