HOW CARE FOR ZZ PLANT
A common houseplant that’s easy to grow sounds like the perfect plant, right? The ZZ Plant may very well be the perfect plant, known for its adaptive abilities and relatively easy-going, low maintenance demeanor.
A is for Aroid
The ZZ plant is an aroid, from the family Araceae, native to eastern and southern Africa, and is spread throughout all continents except Antarctica. Aroids are some of the easiest houseplants to grow, tolerating a wide range of conditions. Aroids are common as houseplants, and in the wild, are often found growing on the forest floor, meaning they have many adaptations to surviving in many conditions, including low light.  
GENERAL CARE

Here are a few tips approved by The Sill in caring for ZZ plants.

SUNLIGHT

Medium indirect light to low light.

WATER

Water weekly. Allow potting mix to dry out before watering. Soil about 1-2” down should be dry to touch. Water more frequently during warmer months and fertilize during growth periods. Keep watering consistent. Not letting it get too dry will prevent it from dropping leaves and potentially going dormant, although this is very rare indoors. Generally, the bases of the petioles will wrinkle or leaves will curl to show that it needs more water. Do not overwater or keep the soil wet for too long, as this will encourage root rot.

HUMIDITY

ZZ plants are not picky about humidity levels.

TEMPERATURE

65°F-85°F (18°C-30°C). It’s best not to let it go below 60°F (15°C).

COMMON PROBLEMS

It is generally a very easy-going plant. Generally pest-free, although has been known to get mealybugs.  Treat pests as soon as they appear with weekly sprays of horticultural (Neem) oil and regular wipe-downs of the plant.

SYMPTOM: Leaves turning brown and crispy at leaf edges

CAUSE: Under watered

SYMPTOM: Flopping

CAUSE: Normal for older outer leaves

SYMPTOM: Yellowing leaves

CAUSE: Rot or root disease; overwatering

SYMPTOM: Leaves curling

CAUSE: Rootbound, underwatered. Possibly cold

PRECAUTIONS

Irritating to cats, dogs, and humans only if foliage consumed. Best practice is always to keep houseplants out of reach of small children and pets.