Peace Lily Black Leaves: Overwatering, Repotting Shock, and Mystery Beads

Black Leaves = Root Problems from Overwatering

Peace lilies develop black leaves when roots rot from constant moisture. Outdoor placement adds uncontrolled rain. "Miracle-Gro Moisture Lock" soil exacerbates this—it's designed to STAY wet.

Immediate Rescue

• Move indoors where you control water
• Bright indirect light (no direct sun)
• Water only when soil dry 2/3 down (test with bamboo skewer)
• Summer: weekly; Winter: every 2-3 weeks
• Keep on dry side—healthier for this species

Repotting Damage Assessment

Fall repotting into larger pot with moisture-retentive soil likely shocked the plant. Disturbed roots + wet soil = decline. The black bead-like structures at leaf joints are normal plant anatomy (stipules), not pests.

Survival Strategy

• Keep very dry, bright, warm
• Don't fertilize
• Remove black leaves
• Wait—recovery possible but not guaranteed