The plants Zamioculcas zamiifolia are species of house low maintenance and characterized by its glossy, broad, oval leaves that project upwards. Because they are slow to grow, you won’t need to replant often. But if you decide to do this, choose a period in spring or summer, when it is in an active growth phase.
Attention: these seedlings are slightly toxic for humans and animals! See some more information you need if you intend to purchase a ZZ plant:
care
Known for being low maintenance and easy to care for, even inexperienced gardeners can keep them alive with minimal attention. All they need to thrive is adequate light is good watering every two weeks.
However, don’t worry too much about forgetting to water it – these plants grow from rhizomes, which help them store water under the soil, making them drought tolerant. If you want to grow it outdoors, place it in a container that can be taken indoors when temperatures cool down.
They exhibit naturally glossy leaves that can start to look dull over time as the dust accumulates. Always gently wipe off dust and debris with a damp cloth to restore shine.
Light
Zamioculcas are tolerant of a wide range of lighting conditions, which makes them suitable for indoor growing – growing well in low-light conditions and preferring bright, indirect light.
However, plants can quickly become leggy when they don’t get enough light, looking for clarity. And avoid direct sun as this can burn the leaves.
Ground
These species are not overly picky about compost, as long as it is well drained. If additional drainage is required, the pearlite or sand mix help to.
Water
Thanks to their thick rhizomes, these seedlings are extremely drought tolerant and can handle infrequent watering.
They should only be watered when the soil has completely dried out – usually once every two weeks, depending on their growing conditions. Remember: in this case, watering less is better than watering too much. When watering, give enough so that the moisture drains through the bottom of the pan and throw away the excess water.
temperature and humidity
Average temperatures and indoor humidity are good for Zamioculcas zamiifolia. They do not tolerate cold temperatures well (no lower than 7ºC), so avoid placing your plant in a place close to drafts or particularly cold areas of your home.
These branches don’t require humid conditions, but if your space is dry, consider increasing the humidity around the pot by purchasing a humidifier or placing it on top of a tray of water.
Fertilizer
They usually don’t require fertilization regulate to prosper. However, if you want to increase size or vigor, use an indoor seedling fertilizer diluted once or twice during the active growing season.
Propagation
Species propagate in two main ways: by division and stakes. Propagating by division is the simplest way to grow more plants – just separate the rhizomes the next time you replant and place them in separate containers.
Propagating with cuttings takes longer and you may need to wait six to nine months before roots begin to grow.
Step by step
- Using a sterilized, sharp cutting tool, cut off an entire stalk, including the leaflets.
- Remove the lower leaves from the stem and place the stem in a pitcher of water.
- Place in indirect light. Roots should form in a few months.
- Change the water weekly to prevent bacterial growth.
replanting
The Zamioculcas must be replanted only after they have outgrown their container – this is usually evident when you see the rhizomes pressing under the soil against the edge of the pot or deforming it.
It can also show signs of stress if the plant is root-bound. As with most houseplants, it’s generally a good idea to wait until spring or summer to repot them, as they will be better able to tolerate disturbance during their active growth period. And remember the container with drainage holes for your ZZ.
common pests
Although they are virtually disease-free, keep an eye out for common houseplant pests such as mealybugs, fungus gnats and aphids that can infest. Use an insecticide in soap, ideal for eliminating most of these problems.
common problems
The only common issue you may have is with how much water the plant is actually getting. If the leaves are falling off, it is extremely dry and in need of water. If the leaves are turning yellow and falling off at the same time, it usually means you’re getting too much. If the top 7 cm (about the length of your finger) of soil is dry, you can water.
*Via The Spruce