Basic ZZ Plant Care
You’ll be pleased to know that the ZZ Plant is actually one of the easiest houseplants to keep happy. They can thrive in a real range of light conditions meaning they are one of the few plants that will be perfectly happy in the shady corner of your home you don’t know what to do with.
ZZ Plants also don’t need much water so are great for busy plant parents as too much water can very quickly cause a real range of issues. Below you will find all the information you need to properly care for your ZZ Plant.
Detailed ZZ Plant Care
ZZ Plants cope in a range of light conditions
Although they prefer bright indirect light, ZZ Plants will cope in low light areas of your home too. Just be careful not to put your ZZ Plant in direct light or this can burn and damage the leaves. Use a light meter to determine if your ZZ Plant is getting enough light.
Water your ZZ Plant every 2 weeks
ZZ Plants really don’t like soggy soil so it is best to be quite cautious when it comes to watering. Make sure that the top of the soil is dry before giving it any more water. We recommend watering your ZZ Plant no more than twice monthly and using a moisture meter to check when your plant needs water.
The natural humidity level in your home is fine
One great thing about taking care of a ZZ Plant is that you don’t need to worry worry about upping the humidity levels, they aren’t that fussy!
ZZ Plants are mildly toxic to pets
Try and keep your ZZ Plant out of the way of pets and children as they can be mildly toxic if ingested, causing vomiting and stomach irritation.
Wipe down your ZZ Plant’s leaves
We recommend misting the leaves with a spray bottle, or wiping them down with a damp cloth every so often so prevent the build up of dust.
Propagate your ZZ Plant by division or leaf cutting
The best way to propagate a ZZ Plant is by division of the mother plant. Carefully remove the plant from the pot and divide up the root system into several new smaller plants. Alternatively you can also propagate by leaf cutting but this will take a lot longer.
ZZ Plant Care FAQs
How often should I water my ZZ Plant?
We recommend watering your ZZ Plant about twice a month about every 3 weeks during winter. ZZ Plants are very sensitive to root rot so they really like their soil to dry out fully between waterings.
What does an overwatered ZZ Plant look like?
If you have overwatered your ZZ Plant then the stems will start to become quite soft and mushy and the leaves will begin to turn yellow and brown. Overwatering can quite quickly impact your ZZ Plant so it’s important to act quickly to prevent more damage.
Is the ZZ Plant toxic?
Yes, unfortunately, if ingested, the ZZ Plant can cause mild stomach irritation and vomiting. So you want to keep these well away from pets and children if they might be tempted to nibble at the leaves.
Can a ZZ Plant tolerate full sun?
ZZ Plants can deal with a small amount of full sun but if too intense, it will begin to burn and scorch the leaves. Luckily though, ZZ Plants can adapt to a range of other light levels!
Are ZZ Plants easy to care for?
Yes ZZ Plants are one of the best low maintenance plants as they are quite adaptable to a range of environments. This makes them one of the best beginner houseplants.
Common Issues for ZZ Plants
Although ZZ Plants are some of the least sensitive houseplants you can buy, it doesn’t mean they won’t occasionally display signs of unhappiness and stress. The most common issues for ZZ Plants are curling leaves, brown spots or tips on the leaves or yellowing of the plant.
Why is my ZZ Plant turning brown?
If you notice brown spots or patches developing on your ZZ Plant, it may be caused by too much direct sunlight. Try moving your ZZ Plant to a shadier area of your home and checking the light level using a sunlight monitor.
Why does my ZZ Plant have brown leaf tips?
If the tips of your ZZ Plant’s leaves are turning brown and crispy, it will most often be caused by underwatering. Give your ZZ Plant a good soak through and adjust your watering schedule moving forward.
Why does my ZZ Plant have yellow leaves?
Yellow leaves on a ZZ Plant are either caused by too much direct sunlight or a pest infestation. Check the light levels in the are your ZZ Plant lives, as well as thoroughly checking over the leaves to spot any further signs of pests. If you do spot any pests on your ZZ Plant, treat it with neem oil and move away from all other plants.
Why are my ZZ Plant's leaves curling?
Curling leaves on a ZZ Plant is often caused by too much direct sunlight. ZZ Plants prefer indirect or low light levels so try moving your plant to a shadier area of the room and monitoring the changes in light using a sunlight meter.
