How to Grow ZZ Plants (2024)

FAQs

How to Grow ZZ Plants? ›

To provide optimal growing conditions, plant ZZ in well-drained soil, place it where it gets a bit of natural light (it also grows well under fluorescent lights) and water it when the top couple of inches of soil dries out.

To provide optimal growing conditions, plant ZZ in well-drained soil, place it where it gets a bit of natural light (it also grows well under fluorescent lights) and water it when the top couple of inches of soil dries out.

Though it can tolerate lower indirect light, the ZZ thrives in medium to bright indirect light. It will be happy with a minimum of six hours per day and can tolerate up to 12 during the warmer months.

You can propagate a ZZ plant through leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, or by division. This process not only allows you to multiply your plant collection but also rejuvenates the original plant. By creating new ZZ plants, you can have meaningful gifts for loved ones or fill more spaces in your home with green life.

Despite being drought-tolerant, your ZZ will be healthiest with regular watering. Humidity: Average indoor humidity, no adjustments required. Soil: Fast-draining medium works best to avoid root rot. Good Succulent or Cactus mix works well.

The ZZ Plant packs a punch with calcium oxalate crystals and saponins, both known irritants. These tiny, sharp-edged crystals can wreak havoc on soft tissues, while saponins, though less aggressive, aren't exactly a skin's best friend either. Ingestion or skin contact can lead to a range of unpleasant reactions.

Light Dilemma: Ensure your ZZ Plant receives bright, indirect sunlight for at least 6-8 hours daily. Supplement with artificial grow lights if natural light is scarce, fostering a more compact and bushy growth.

ZZ PLANT CARE

To keep the foliage nice and shiny, clean with a damp cloth as needed to remove dust. Misting the leaves occasionally will also reduce dust buildup. Keeping your plant dust-free is good for its health too, because the leaves will be able take in more sunlight.

Place your ZZ plant's pot in a saucer or tray large enough to accommodate water without overflowing. Fill the plant tray/saucer with water, allowing the plant to absorb moisture from the bottom up. Monitor absorption for around 10 minutes, ensuring the plant's roots absorb water without sitting in excess.

Plant the stem in well-draining potting mix with the leaves above the soil. Put the cutting in bright, indirect light. ZZ plants are hardy and not prone to pests but they can attract mealy bugs, scale, fungus gnats and aphids. Use a fungicide to treat the problem and remove damaged leaves.

How often should a ZZ plant be watered? ›

ZZ's like to dry out completely between waterings. They have an extremely efficient water retention mechanism, so you shouldn't water this plant until its soil has become dry throughout the pot. In low light environments or winter, this can mean watering as infrequently as once a month.

Shape your Raven ZZ into a verdant work of art 🎨 with these savvy pruning tips. Prune during growth season to stimulate new shoots and fuller foliage. Light trim recommended to avoid plant shock and encourage denser growth.

In conclusion, dividing ZZ Plants is a simple and effective way to propagate and expand your plant collection. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this article, you can easily multiply your ZZ Plants and create a beautiful green oasis in your home.

How to Feed ZZ Plants. A month after planting, begin feeding ZZ plants with Miracle-Gro® Indoor Plant Food Spikes to provide a steady source of nutrition.

This is a normal phenomen and is the sign of a happy, well-watered specimen. It's called guttation or weeping leaves. Plants breathe at night and still need sap to flow up and down the plant. Guttation takes over to force sap and water up when transpiration stops being effective.

It's a good idea to move it to a position with more natural light to keep it thriving. You can also use grow lights, like this plant grow light from Amazon, to provide your ZZ with extra light if it sits in a shadier position in your home.

ZZ plants grow best in well-draining soils. Normally, the houseplant potting soils you can find in the stores are good. If you want to ensure better drainage, you can mix the soil with some perlite, orchid bark chips, or horticultural charcoal.

Underwatering and overwatering both lead to droopy ZZ plant leaves. Bright, indirect sunlight is optimal; avoid extreme temperatures. Consistent care: Water schedule, proper soil, and pest checks are crucial.