What’s the problem?
My peace lily has recently developed silver and grey streaks on its leaves. It hasn’t been moved and there haven’t been any changes to its routine – it gets watered and misted once or twice a week. Any advice?
Diagnosis
Silver or grey streaks on peace lily leaves often signify thrips. These are tiny slender insects that feed by scraping the surface of leaves and sucking out the sap, leaving behind a silvery sheen or streaking. They enjoy warm, dry conditions, and can go unnoticed until damage becomes obvious.
Prescription
Isolate your lily to stop the pests spreading. Check the undersides of leaves for tiny black specks (thrip droppings) or the thrips themselves. Wipe down each leaf with a damp cloth, ensuring you clean along the veins. Follow up with a weekly application of insecticidal soap until no new signs of damage appear.
Prevention
Inspect plants regularly, especially for new growth where thrips often hide. Keep your plants moist as they dislike humid environments. Always quarantine any new plant purchases for a couple of weeks to catch pest problems before they spread through your collection.
