About ZZ Plants
The Zamioculcas zamiifolia – or ZZ Plant for short – is a tropical perennial that has become popular worldwide in recent years due to its tolerance of a wide range of conditions. Due to its easy care and ability to thrive in low light conditions, it’s no doubt it became one of the favorite plants for a grower. With large, waxy green leaves and stems that grow in a wand-like shape, it makes an impressive architectural display. Inspired by the leaves of a lily, the ZZ plant’s glossy green stems rise upward from a cluster of roots in a graceful and eye-catching way. Sized to fit on tabletops, desks, and other small spaces, it’s an excellent choice for those who do not have much for tending plants. This easy-care houseplant is known for its resilience, making it a great pick for beginners!
So Why Adopt a ZZ Plant?
Here are just some of its scientifically proven benefits:
Eliminate Pollutants
Our air quality has been getting better over time, but not everywhere and not always. Often the reason is that indoor air pollution due to poor ventilation has been rising in the current world situation. The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that household air pollution from solid fuels kills about three million people each year and that two billion people globally are exposed to it daily.
NASA Clean Air Studies confirmed the ability of ZZ plants to purify the air. According to their report, the plant was able to absorb toxins from the surroundings through its roots and leaves. Moreover, it also helps in producing a high amount of oxygen!
Improve Brain Function
Fresh air and physical activity are two of the most basic ways we can revitalize our brains. And they don’t require a gym membership or expensive equipment. As it turns out, the secret to healthier brain function was literally right under our noses the whole time: fresh air.
Isn’t a Water Needy
Since succulents store water in their leaves, they don’t need to be watered as frequently as other plants. This is why succulents are perfect for those who have busy schedules or don’t have the best track record for keeping plants alive.
Growing ZZ Plants
WATERING
In general, the ZZ plant requires very little maintenance. During its growing season (April through September), it produces new leaves every two months or so. During this time, you should water the plant thoroughly when the top few inches of soil becomes dry; make sure you empty any draining saucers after watering.
For best results, be sure to use a well-draining potting soil with at least 20% perlite; avoid potting mixes that are mostly peat moss or compost. Apply a slow-release fertilizer twice a year during the growing season.
LIGHT
Indoor plants do not receive as much light as outdoor plants. So most indoor plants will appreciate a little extra light. The ZZ plant is one of those that really like to have some bright indirect light daily.
If you have a north-facing window or any window that doesn’t get direct sunlight throughout the day, the ZZ plant would do well there. If you do have a south-facing window with direct sunlight, I would suggest placing sheer curtains between your plant and the window to diffuse the light coming in. This will prevent leaf scorching but still allow for plenty of beneficial light.
SOIL
Using a standard potting mix will provide your plant with all the nutrients it needs to grow. A soil that has a ph of 6.0-7.0 is perfect for this plant. Most potting mixes are designed to be used in containers or pots and have good drainage properties, meaning they do not retain too much water or become too waterlogged. It is important that you choose potting mixes which have been specifically designed for indoor plants because these will contain fewer nutrients than those intended for outdoor use.
Caring for ZZ Plants
- Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Keep in bright indirect light and turn the pot regularly so that it grows evenly on all sides.
- Humidity is not a problem for the ZZ plant–let it be your go-to choice for bathrooms or other areas with low humidity.
- Leaf shines are products that help make the leaves of indoor plants a little shinier and more reflective. Although they may make the plant look nice, leaf shine products are not necessary for a ZZ Plant. In fact, most leaf shines contain petroleum distillates and/or some type of silicone oil. These ingredients can damage the waxy cuticle on the leaves of your houseplants.
- Using half-strength diluted fertilizer every once or twice a year is also beneficial for the ZZ Plant
Propagating ZZ Plants
Step 1: When you’re ready to propagate your ZZ, use a sharp knife and cut the original rhizome into pieces. Each piece should have at least one leaf and a small piece of stem. The new plants will grow from the point where the leaf meets the rhizome.
Step 2: Allow these pieces to dry for half an hour before replanting them in a container filled with a well-draining potting mix such as African violet mix or cactus mix.
Step 3: Moisten the soil and put it in a spot that receives bright light but no direct sunlight.
Another method of propagation is to take a cutting with two leaves and a bit of stem. Allow it to dry for half an hour before replanting it in moist potting soil.
ZZ grows quicker when more rhizomes or larger rhizomes are grown together.
Pest and Disease Control
This plant is generally pest-free so a weekly spray of organic pesticides such as neem oil and eucalyptus oil will prevent the insects from bothering the plant.
SYMPTOM: Wilting plant, damp potting mix
CAUSE: Overwatered
SOLUTION: Let the pot drain for an hour or so and then check the soil again. If it’s still very damp, wait; if it’s dry or starting to dry out, water sparingly. Overwatering is a common cause of houseplant death.
SYMPTOM: Brown leaf tips and edges
CAUSE: Dry air; fertilizing too much; fluoride in some city water supplies; salt build-up from hard water
SOLUTION: Water deeply until it runs out the drainage hole. If you are watering frequently but the soil is dry only an inch or two down, repot in a pot one size larger with fresh soil.