How to Propagate a ZZ Plant: Step-by-Step Methods

The ZZ plant, or Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is appreciated for its striking appearance and resilience, making it a favorite for many plant owners. Propagating this durable plant is a straightforward process that can be accomplished through a few different techniques, allowing you to easily expand your collection.

Preparing for Propagation

Proper timing and tools are important for successful propagation. The best time to propagate is during the active growing period of spring and summer. During this time, the plant’s energy is geared toward new growth, which aids in root development. Propagating in fall or winter is possible indoors, but the process will be slower.

You will need a pair of sharp, clean scissors or a knife, a clear jar for water rooting, and small pots with drainage holes for soil. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as one for cacti or succulents, to prevent waterlogging.

Propagation by Stem Cuttings

Stem cuttings are a common and reliable propagation method that yields results relatively quickly. To begin, select a healthy stalk with several leaves. Using your sterilized tool, make a clean cut at the base of the stalk near the soil line.

Rooting Stems in Water

Water rooting is popular because you can watch the roots develop. Place the cutting in a jar with enough water to submerge the bottom few inches of the stem. Ensure at least one node is underwater, as this is where roots emerge.

Change the water weekly to keep it clean. After a few months, a small rhizome and roots at least an inch long should form, signaling it’s ready for soil.

Rooting Stems in Soil

You can also root the cutting directly in soil, which can lead to a stronger initial root system. Before planting, let the cut end of the stem sit out for a few hours to a day to form a callus, which helps prevent rot. Once callused, insert the cut end into a pot filled with the potting mix. Water the soil thoroughly, allowing any excess to drain away.

Propagation by Leaf Cuttings

Propagating from a single leaf is an effective, though considerably slower, method. It is a good option if you cannot take a full stem cutting. Because not every leaf will root, taking several cuttings at once increases your chances of success.

Using a clean tool, cut healthy leaves from the stalk, making sure to include a small piece of the main stem with each leaf. You can root leaves in either water or soil. For water rooting, place the cut end in a jar of water and change it weekly.

For soil rooting, first allow the cut end to callus over for a few hours. Then, insert the bottom of the leaf about one centimeter deep into a pot with moist potting mix. It can take several months for a new rhizome to form at the base of the leaf, and even longer before new shoots emerge.

Propagation by Division

Division is the quickest method for creating a mature-looking plant and is best for large plants that are outgrowing their pots. This method involves separating the plant’s underground rhizomes, and the best time for this is when repotting in the spring. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and shake off excess soil to expose the rhizomes.

Gently pull the rhizomes apart by hand, ensuring each new division has at least one stalk with its own roots and rhizome. If the rhizomes are tangled, you may need to use a clean knife to cut them apart.

Let the divisions rest for a few hours to allow cut surfaces to heal and prevent rot. Plant each division into its own pot with fresh potting mix and water lightly.

Caring for New ZZ Plants

Proper care is needed for newly propagated plants to establish themselves. For cuttings started in water, the transition to soil is an important step. Wait until the new roots are at least an inch long before moving the cutting to a pot with well-draining soil. After planting, water it thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

All newly propagated ZZ plants should be placed in a location that receives bright, indirect light, as direct sun can scorch young leaves. Water sparingly, as ZZ plants are drought-tolerant. A good rule is to water only when the top inch or two of soil is completely dry. Be patient, as it can take time for the new plants to show significant growth.