Product Description:
The ZZ is a rhizome plant that’s a real joy to grow and to have displayed within a home. The ZZ plant grows similar to tree plants or palms and has stems with many leaves growing from these stems. The leaves are a fleshy type which are only a couple of inches in length and an inch or so wide. Some of these stems from the same plant grow straight up and then others arch over, which may encourage you to prune odd looking stems to keep the plant looking full and shaped well. NASA recommended indoor air purifier plant.
Light:
Bright light is good but not essential. The zamioculcas zamiifolia grows fine with low levels of light, but it’s best to avoid direct sunlight.
Water:
Water every 2-3 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light.
Soil:
ZZ plants are not overly picky about their potting medium as long as it is well-draining. Most standard potting mixes should be sufficient for your plant.
Fertilizer:
During the main growing season (April – August) feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer which is diluted, once a month.
Temperature and Humidity:
Average household temperatures and humidity are fine for Zanzibar gems. ZZ plants do not tolerate cold temperatures well (no lower than 45 degrees Fahrenheit), so avoid placing your plant in a location close to drafts or particularly cold areas of your home. ZZ plants don’t require humid conditions, but if your home runs on the dry side, consider increasing the humidity around your plant by purchasing a humidifier or placing it on top of a water tray.
Pruning:
Cut away leaflets that are turning yellow near the base of a stem. Once a stem has grown much longer than all other stems you can remove that stem or cut it to size at the tip.
Propagating ZZ Plant:
- Using a sterilized and sharp cutting tool, cut an entire stalk, including leaflets.
- Remove the bottom leaves from the stem, and place the stalk in a jar of water.
- Place in indirect light. Roots should form in a few months. Change water weekly to prevent bacterial growth.
Re-Potting:
I would re-pot the zz plant once a year at the beginning of spring, especially during the first 3 – 5 years – whilst it’s growing up.
