- How to propagate a ZZ plant using leaf cuttings or division
- Step-by-step care instructions for each method
- Tips on potting, soil, and lighting for young plants
- Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- Best practices to encourage successful propagation
Introduction
The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is one of the most popular houseplants thanks to its low maintenance needs, glossy green foliage, and ability to thrive in a variety of light conditions. Whether you’re growing your indoor jungle or want to add natural flair to a business space, the ZZ plant is a go-to.
Propagating your ZZ plant offers multiple benefits. It’s cost-effective, sustainable, and allows you to create matching greenery setups in multiple areas—or share with your community. If you’re ready to turn your single ZZ plant into several, this guide is for you.
Overview of the ZZ Plant
Native to Eastern Africa, the ZZ plant naturally grows in dry grasslands and forests. This hardy background gives it the resilience to tolerate low light and infrequent watering in indoor environments.
Although ZZ plants are slow growers, their rhizome-based structure and thick leaves make them ideal for propagation through division or leaf cuttings.
Learn more about general plant propagation strategies in our Plant Propagation Guide.
ZZ Plant Propagation Methods
Leaf Cuttings
- Time commitment: Several months
- Ideal for patient growers or when you have only a few healthy leaves
- Process involves rooting cut petioles that generate new rhizomes and roots
Division of Rhizomes
- Time commitment: Minimal—results in instant clones
- Best for mature ZZ plants with multiple stems
- Preserves genetic consistency and overall plant vigor
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Propagate ZZ Plants
How to Propagate from Leaf Cuttings
- Choose a few healthy, mature leaves from the base of the plant.
- Cut each leaf with a clean petiole using sterilized scissors or pruning shears.
- Let the cuttings sit in a dry area for 4–6 hours to allow callousing and prevent rot.
- Place cuttings in:
- Moist potting mix: Insert each petiole into a lightweight, well-draining soil mix.
- Water propagation: Submerge the cut base in a small vase or jar with clean water.
- Label each container with the date started to track progress.
- Set containers in a warm spot with bright, indirect light.
How to Propagate by Division
- Gently remove the parent plant from its pot and brush away excess soil from the roots.
- Examine the rhizomes and stems to find natural division points (clusters with their own root systems).
- Using a sterilized knife, separate the plant into sections ensuring each has at least one healthy stem and rhizome.
- Repot each division into new containers filled with fresh, well-draining soil.
- Water each transplant sparingly and label with the transplant date.
Rooting, Potting & Growth Timeline
| Propagation Method | Root Formation Time | Growth Expectations |
|---|---|---|
| Leaf Cuttings | 2–3 months to root, several more for visible growth | Slower growth; patience essential |
| Division | Roots established within weeks | Faster acclimation and new leaf production |
Choosing the Right Soil
- Mixes with perlite, cactus soil, or sand encourage drainage
- Avoid heavy, moisture-retaining soils that encourage rot
Pot Selection Tips
- Use small to medium containers with ample drainage holes
- Don’t use oversized pots—they retain excess moisture
How to Know Rooting is Successful
- Cuttings feel firm and plump
- No signs of yellowing or mushiness
- Tubers or roots visible through container or soil surface
Caring for New ZZ Plants
Watering
- Let soil dry out completely between waterings
- Check moisture by inserting a finger about 2 inches deep
Lighting
- Bright, indirect sunlight is best
- Avoid direct sun—it can stress or scorch new cuttings
Temperature & Humidity
- Maintain 65–75°F (18–24°C) indoor temps
- Average room humidity is sufficient
Fertilization
- Wait 2 to 3 months post-propagation
- Use a diluted, balanced (10-10-10) liquid fertilizer monthly during active growing seasons
Best Practices and Common Mistakes to Avoid
Best Practices
- Wear gloves—ZZ plant sap can cause skin irritation
- Disinfect tools between cuts to avoid disease spread
- Date and label cuttings to track rooting progress
Common Mistakes
- Overwatering: Too much moisture leads to rot, especially in early rooting stages
- Too much light: Keep new cuttings out of direct sunlight
- Lack of patience: Especially with leaf cuttings—expect a slow process
Conclusion
ZZ plant propagation is a rewarding and low-cost way to build your indoor collection or expand your green business aesthetic. Whether you choose patient leaf propagation or quick division, success lies in clean tools, proper aftercare, and attention to plant signals.
We encourage you to experiment with both methods and share your growth journey. More advanced care tips and troubleshooting guides are available on our site—stay connected!
Internal Resource Links
Downloadable Propagation Checklist
Want a printable step-by-step checklist? Sign up for our newsletter and we’ll send you a downloadable ZZ Propagation PDF instantly.
How to Build This in Make.com
Automate propagation tracking and reminders using Make.com by setting up a workflow that helps you stay organized and consistent.
- Module 1 – Google Sheets / Create Spreadsheet: Create a table with columns like “Plant Name,” “Propagation Method,” “Start Date,” “Reminder Date.”
- Module 2 – Webhook / Custom Web Form: Design a webhook that lets you submit new cuttings through a phone or desktop form.
- Module 3 – Date & Time / Add Days: Calculate a reminder date (e.g., 60 or 90 days from start) based on rooting expectations.
- Module 4 – Google Calendar / Create Event: Automatically schedule a calendar event with notes about the propagation batch.
- Module 5 – Gmail / Send Yourself a Reminder: Send timed reminder emails to check root progress according to the method used.
Bonus: Add an optional photo upload field during form submission to document progress visually over time.
- What You’ll Automate: Tracking new plants, scheduling future care/check-ins, and centralizing propagation data
