ZZ plants are among the easiest houseplants to hit the market. They are beautiful, extremely low-maintenance, and seem to last forever. But how often do you water them?
ZZ plants grow from large, thick rhizomes that resemble potatoes. These rhizomes store water, which is why the plant does well during droughts and in homes where forgetful owners live.
These plants are highly drought-tolerant and can handle infrequent watering thanks to their thick rhizomes. You should generally water ZZ plants once the soil dries out completely—usually once every two weeks, depending on their growing conditions. It's better to water your plant less than to give it too much water. When watering, wet the soil thoroughly until the water runs out of the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot. Discard the excess water.
A common issue with the ZZ plant is overwatering. If the leaves drop, the plant is dehydrated and needs water. The opposite is true if the leaves are yellowing and dropping simultaneously; the plant is receiving too much water. If the top 3 inches (roughly the length of your finger) of soil are dry, the plant is ready for water.
One of the benefits of the ZZ plant is that it can thrive in various lighting conditions. ZZ plants are tolerant of a wide range of lighting environments, which makes them well-suited for indoor growing. The plants can grow in low-light conditions, although they may become leggy if not given enough light. When placing the plant in your home, choose a bright, indirect light spot, preferably in a room with south-facing windows. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves of your plant.