Zanzibar Gem plant is a popular houseplant known for its low maintenance, tolerance to low light conditions and air purification properties. The plant is also known as ZZ plant, Zuzu plant, or Zamioculcas zamiifolia. While the plant can be propagated through division, stem cuttings or rhizome division, growing from seeds is another popular option. In this article, we will guide you on how to store, sow and germinate Zanzibar Gem plant seeds.
The first step to growing Zanzibar Gem plant from seeds is to obtain the seeds. You can purchase seeds from online stores or collect them from a mature Zanzibar Gem plant. The plant produces small, round berries that contain one or two seeds each.
Once you have obtained the seeds, you need to store them in a dry and cool place. You can use an airtight container or a ziplock bag for storage. Make sure to label the container with the date of collection and the name of the plant.
Zanzibar Gem plant seeds can be sown at any time of the year. However, it is best to sow them during spring or early summer when the temperature is warm and there is plenty of sunlight.
To sow the seeds, you will need a seedling tray or a pot with drainage holes. Fill the tray or pot with a well-draining soil mix. The soil mix should be moist but not waterlogged.
Make small holes in the soil mix with your finger or a pencil. Drop one or two seeds in each hole and cover them with soil. Water the soil gently with a spray bottle.
Place the seedling tray or pot in a warm and bright location. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the delicate seedlings. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Zanzibar Gem plant seeds can take anywhere from two to six weeks to germinate. However, some seeds may take longer, so be patient.
Once the seeds have germinated, you will notice small green shoots emerging from the soil. At this stage, you need to gradually increase the amount of sunlight the seedlings receive. You can do this by moving them to a brighter location for a few hours each day.
Make sure to keep the soil moist and provide regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Once the seedlings reach a height of 10-12 cm, you can transplant them to individual pots or containers.
You should water your Zanzibar Gem plant seeds when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Zanzibar Gem plant can tolerate low light conditions, but it prefers bright, indirect sunlight. If you are growing the seeds in low light conditions, make sure to provide artificial light.
Zanzibar Gem plant seeds can take anywhere from two to six weeks to germinate. However, some seeds may take longer, so be patient.
Yes, you can propagate Zanzibar Gem plant from stem cuttings or rhizome division. However, growing from seeds is another popular option.
You should fertilize your Zanzibar Gem plant seedlings every two to three weeks with a balanced fertilizer.