Boat Lily Plant:
Indoor Growing Tips for a Lush and Healthy Plant

Boat Lily, also known as Moses-in-the-Cradle, is a popular indoor plant that is loved for its beautiful foliage and ease of care. With its striking green and purple leaves, the boat lily plant can add a touch of color and vibrancy to any indoor space. In this article, we will provide you with some useful tips on how to grow a lush and healthy boat lily plant indoors.

Light

Boat Lily plants prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while low light conditions can cause the plant to become leggy and weak. Place your boat lily in a location where it receives filtered sunlight or bright, indirect light for at least six hours a day.

Watering

Boat Lily plants prefer moist soil but do not like to be overwatered. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for the plant. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering the plant again. Make sure to water the soil directly, avoiding the leaves as much as possible.

Soil

Boat Lily plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. A good potting mix should contain peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. Avoid using heavy soils that retain moisture for too long.

Temperature and Humidity

Boat Lily plants prefer warm temperatures and high humidity levels. Ideally, the temperature should be between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and 55-65°F (13-18°C) at night. Humidity levels should be kept between 50-60%. You can increase humidity levels by placing a tray of water near the plant or by using a humidifier.

Fertilizer

Boat Lily plants do not require frequent fertilization but can benefit from occasional feeding. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization during the winter months when the plant is dormant.

Pruning

Boat Lily plants do not require frequent pruning but can benefit from occasional trimming to maintain their shape and promote new growth. Use sharp, sterile scissors or pruning shears to remove any dead or yellowing leaves.

Propagation

Boat Lily plants are easy to propagate through stem cuttings. Cut a 4-6 inch stem from the mother plant, making sure it has at least one node. Remove any lower leaves and place the cutting in moist soil. Keep the soil moist until new growth appears.

Common Problems

Yellow Leaves

Yellow leaves on a boat lily plant can indicate overwatering or underwatering. Check the soil moisture level and adjust your watering habits accordingly.

Brown Tips

Brown tips on a boat lily plant can indicate low humidity levels or overfertilization. Increase humidity levels or reduce fertilization to solve this problem.

Leggy Growth

Leggy growth on a boat lily plant can indicate low light levels. Move the plant to a brighter location or provide artificial lighting to promote healthy growth.

FAQ

How often should I water my boat lily plant?

Water your boat lily plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Can I keep my boat lily plant outside?

Boat Lily plants are best suited for indoor growing as they prefer warm temperatures and high humidity levels.

Can I propagate my boat lily plant in water?

Yes, you can propagate your boat lily plant in water by placing stem cuttings in a jar of water until roots appear. Transfer the cutting to soil once roots have formed.

Can I use tap water to water my boat lily plant?

Boat Lily plants prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 6-6.5. If your tap water is alkaline, you may need to adjust the pH level by adding vinegar or lemon juice to the water before watering your plant.

In conclusion, growing a boat lily plant indoors is easy if you provide it with proper care and attention. Follow these tips to keep your boat lily healthy and vibrant for years to come!