The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is one of those houseplants that seems almost indestructible.
It thrives on neglect, survives in low light, and doesn’t mind if you forget to water it for a while.
But did you know you can also multiply this beauty and grow more plants from just one?
If you’ve been eyeing those glossy green leaves and wishing you had more pots filled with them, here’s your complete guide to propagating ZZ plants.
This is the slowest way to grow new ZZ plants, but it’s also the most magical, you get to watch an entirely new plant develop from a single leaf.
Start by cutting off a healthy leaf, making sure it includes the little stem nub at its base.
You then place the leaf in a jar of water or plant it directly in moist, well-draining soil.
Over the next few weeks or months, the base of the leaf will begin to form tiny roots and eventually a rhizome, the potato-like bulb ZZ plants grow from.
However, new shoots may take 6-9 months to appear. But if you’re not in a hurry, it’s an exciting project to watch unfold.
If waiting nearly a year sounds too long, stem cuttings give you a head start.
You just cut a stem with several healthy leaves and either place it in water or soil.
In water, you’ll need to change it every 1-2 weeks to prevent stagnation. Roots will appear in a few months, and eventually new shoots will follow.
This method is a nice middle ground: not as slow as a single leaf, but not quite instant gratification either.
Plus, you get the satisfaction of seeing a cutting grow roots right before your eyes.
For those who want results now, division is the way to go. ZZ plants grow from rhizomes that look like little potatoes under the soil.
When your plant has outgrown its pot, take it out gently and separate the rhizomes by hand or with a clean knife.
Each divided section should have its own roots and at least one stem.
Next, replant the sections in fresh soil, give them a light watering, and watch them settle in.
Unlike leaf or stem cuttings, divisions already have a head start, so they’ll grow faster and fill out a pot more quickly.
Once you’ve taken the time to propagate your ZZ plant, the real key to success is in the aftercare.
The first thing your new plantlets need is the right soil. A loose, well-draining mix is ideal.
Cactus or succulent soil with a bit of perlite mixed in prevents excess water from sitting around the roots and rhizomes.
Light also plays an important role in getting your young ZZ to settle in.
While mature plants can handle very low light, fresh cuttings or divisions appreciate brighter, indirect light.
A spot near a window with filtered sun is perfect. Too much direct sun, though, may scorch those tender new leaves.
Watering is where patience pays off. At first, keep the soil lightly moist to help roots establish, but don’t let it stay soggy.
Once you see new growth, shift back to the ZZ’s classic routin, watering only when the soil is completely dry.
They thrive on a less is more approach, so resist the temptation to overdo it.
Above all, give your new plants time. ZZs are naturally slow growers, and it may be months before you see substantial growth.
See also: 7 Tips to Make Your ZZ Plant Multiply in the Same Pot
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