The Zanzibar Gem plant, also known as the ZZ plant, is a popular low-maintenance houseplant that’s native to Eastern Africa. It’s easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions. However, when it comes to watering, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure your ZZ plant stays healthy and happy.
One of the reasons why the Zanzibar Gem plant is so popular is because it doesn’t require frequent watering. In fact, this plant prefers to stay on the dry side. In general, you should only water your ZZ plant when the soil has completely dried out. This means that you should wait until the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch before watering.
It’s important not to overwater your Zanzibar Gem plant, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. Overwatering can be especially problematic if your plant is sitting in a container without proper drainage. Make sure that your ZZ plant is planted in a pot with drainage holes and that any excess water is able to drain out.
When it comes to how much water to use when watering your ZZ plant, less is definitely more. You should aim to use just enough water to thoroughly moisten the soil without leaving any standing water in the pot.
As a general rule, you should aim to use about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of water per watering session for a small ZZ plant (6-inch pot) and up to 1 cup for a larger ZZ plant (10-inch pot). However, this will depend on a number of factors, such as the size of your pot, the type of soil you’re using, and the environmental conditions in your home.
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when watering your Zanzibar Gem plant:
ZZ plants don’t require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize your ZZ plant once every three months or so during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced fertilizer.
ZZ plants prefer well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. A mixture of potting soil and perlite or sand works well.
Yes, ZZ plants are very tolerant of low light conditions. However, they will grow more slowly and may not produce as many leaves if they’re not getting enough light.
If your ZZ plant is drooping, it’s likely a sign that it’s being overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. If the drooping persists, check the roots for signs of rot and consider repotting your plant into fresh soil.