Want more ZZ plants without spending money?
Grow them from cuttings!
It’s easier than you think. Here are 8 simple tactics to get started.
Ready to turn one plant into many?
Let’s learn how!
Gather Your Supplies
First things first, you need the right tools. Get yourself a clean pair of scissors or pruning shears, a glass of water or a small pot with potting soil, and some patience.
It’s also a good idea to have a cutting board if you’ll be doing this on your kitchen table. Safety first, right?
Choose the Right Stem
Pick a healthy, mature stem from your ZZ plant. You want one that’s at least a couple of inches long, preferably with a few leaves.
Avoid using any stems that look brown or unhealthy. Snip the stem just below a leaf node.
You’ve got this!
Let the Cutting Dry
Before you do anything else, let the stem cutting dry out for a day or two. ZZ plants have a tendency to rot if they’re planted when they’re still too fresh.
Just leave them out on a clean surface and let them be for a bit. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Rooting in Water
If you’re going the water route, grab that glass of water we mentioned earlier. Place the cutting into the water, making sure at least one node is submerged.
You’ve just created a little ZZ plant spa! Change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
Potting in Soil
Going for soil? Great!
Fill a small pot with potting soil and create a hole in the center. Place your cutting in the hole, making sure at least one node is beneath the surface.
Lightly press the soil around the cutting to secure it. Now, just water it a little.
Be Patient
This is probably the hardest part for most people. Whether you’ve decided to root your cutting in water or soil, patience is key.
You’ll start to see roots in a few weeks if all goes well. It might take a bit longer, so don’t lose heart!
Plant Care During Rooting
Keep an eye on your cutting. If it’s in water, make sure to change the water regularly.
For soil, keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place your cutting in a spot with indirect sunlight.
Basically, you’re on plant babysitting duty—but it’s not so hard.
Transitioning to a Pot
Once your cutting has developed a good root system, it’s time to move to a more permanent home. For water-rooted cuttings, transfer them to a pot with soil.
Make sure your pot has drainage holes. New homes are important—ZZ plants have standards, you know!