Growing and Caring for a ZZ Plant Outdoors

The ZZ plant, or Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is known for its resilience indoors, but it can also thrive outside. Moving a ZZ plant outdoors requires understanding its needs, which are based on its native environment in eastern Africa. Success depends on providing the right conditions for light, temperature, and moisture.

Creating the Right Outdoor Environment

The greatest risk to an outdoor ZZ plant is direct sunlight, which will scorch its waxy leaves. These plants are adapted to filtered light and will yellow or develop brown tips if exposed to harsh rays. An ideal location receives bright, indirect light, such as a covered porch, under an awning, or beneath a larger tree. A north-facing placement is also suitable.

Temperature is another defining factor. ZZ plants thrive between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C). They are not frost-tolerant and must be brought inside if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), as freezing conditions will kill the plant.

A location sheltered from strong winds prevents fronds from snapping and the soil from drying out too quickly. The plant should also be protected from heavy rainfall. Saturated soil from excessive water can lead to root rot.

Transitioning Between Indoors and Outdoors

Moving a ZZ plant outdoors requires a gradual “hardening off” period to prevent shock from sudden changes in light and temperature. Over seven to ten days, start by placing it in a fully shaded outdoor spot for a few hours. Each day, increase its time outside and slowly introduce it to brighter, indirect light.

When nighttime temperatures consistently fall in autumn, reverse the process to bring the plant inside. Before moving it, perform a thorough inspection for pests like spider mites, mealybugs, or aphids. Check under the leaves and around the stems, and wipe the plant with water or insecticidal soap to remove any pests.

Once inside, the plant will readjust to lower light levels, and its growth will slow for winter dormancy. Place it in a location with bright, indirect light. Keep it away from drafts from heaters that could dry out the air.

Outdoor ZZ Plant Care

A ZZ plant’s soil will dry out faster outdoors due to increased airflow, temperature, and light. Check the soil moisture regularly, watering only when the top one to two inches feel dry. The pot must have excellent drainage to allow excess water to escape, as waterlogged soil is a significant threat.

Continue to check for pests throughout the summer by inspecting the plant during watering for signs of infestation. Common pests like aphids and spider mites can be treated with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

During the spring and summer growing season, the plant benefits from fertilization. Apply a balanced, all-purpose liquid fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, once a month. Avoid over-fertilizing, as ZZ plants store nutrients in their rhizomes. Signs of stress include yellowing leaves (overwatering) or brown, crispy leaf tips (too much sun).