Zamioculcas care: Preventing yellow leaves in your ZZ plant

The zamioculcas, also referred to as the ZZ plant, has surged in popularity in recent years. Its elegant leaves and low maintenance requirements make it an ideal decorative choice for both flats and offices. Additionally, the zamioculcas thrives in various conditions, making it a favourite among beginners in the realm of houseplants.

Not everyone realises how straightforward it can be to cultivate this plant. You simply need to provide it with a few basic conditions to enjoy healthy and green leaves all year round. Therefore, it's worthwhile to explore the care secrets of the zamioculcas to fully appreciate its aesthetic and practical values.

The right spot for the zamioculcas is crucial to its healthy growth. This plant thrives best in well-lit areas but away from direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves. For this reason, partial shade or diffused light is ideal for the zamioculcas. However, this doesn't mean it can't manage in less favourable conditions—it's hardy enough to cope even in slightly dimmer rooms.

The next consideration is choosing the right soil. The zamioculcas isn't highly demanding regarding soil, but it thrives best in a mix of humus-rich soil with added sand or perlite. Such a substrate ensures good drainage, which is vital because this plant does not tolerate soggy conditions around its roots. Additionally, the pot must have drainage holes to prevent overwatering.

The zamioculcas also benefits from proper fertilisation. It's advisable to use mineral fertilisers once a month during the spring-summer period.

When watering the plant, caution is essential. Despite being exceptionally drought-resistant, excessive moisture in the soil can cause significant problems. Thus, it is recommended to water only when the top layer of soil is dry. During winter, the watering frequency should be reduced even further.

The yellowing of zamioculcas leaves is a relatively common issue that its owners might encounter. Most often, it's a sign that the plant has been overwatered, leading to root rot. To address this, changing the soil to fresh, well-draining soil and reducing watering is advisable. Adding a raw egg to the soil can also benefit the plant with essential calcium for proper growth.

Repotting the zamioculcas is another factor that requires attention. This plant doesn't need frequent repotting, but when the root system has filled the pot every few years, it's wise to consider this step. The new pot should be only slightly larger than the previous one to ensure stable root development without the risk of overwatering. During repotting, you might also consider propagating the zamioculcas by dividing the rhizome, which allows for obtaining new, healthy cuttings.