The Zamioculcas zamiifolia, commonly known as the ZZ plant, is renowned for its durability and glossy, deep green foliage. Its popularity stems from its exceptional tolerance for neglect and low-light conditions, traits inherited from its native East African environment. This drought-tolerant species can be grown in water, though it involves a shift from traditional soil culture to a semi-hydroponic method. This approach requires specific care to prevent nutrient deficiencies and root decay. For long-term growth, simple water is insufficient; the environment must be managed to mimic a complete nutrient solution.
Rooting ZZ Plant Cuttings in Water
Propagating a ZZ plant in water is a successful method for creating new plants from cuttings. You can use either a stem (petiole) or individual leaflets taken from the main plant. To begin, use a sterile, sharp blade to take a cutting, ensuring the cut is clean and not crushed, which helps prevent microbial entry.
Allow the cut end of the stem or leaf to air-dry for several hours, or even overnight, until a protective callus forms over the wound. This callusing mimics the plant’s natural defense against rot before placing the cutting into water. The vessel should be filled with non-chlorinated water, such as rainwater or tap water that has sat out for 24 hours, allowing the chlorine to dissipate.
Place the cutting in the water, submerging the cut end, and position the container in bright, indirect light. Root development is a slow process; while some may see roots in two to four weeks, the process often takes several months. A substantial root system and the characteristic water-storing rhizome will eventually begin to form.
Long-Term Maintenance in Water Culture
Once the roots are established, transitioning the cutting to a permanent water-based culture requires a strict maintenance schedule. Unlike soil, which provides a buffered environment, the water reservoir is a dynamic system that needs frequent attention. Stagnant water quickly becomes depleted of oxygen and can harbor pathogens, leading to root problems.
Changing the water completely is necessary at least every two weeks to replenish oxygen levels and remove waste products. Using a clear glass vessel allows for easy monitoring of the water level and the roots, which should appear firm and white. Algae growth is common, so the inside of the vessel should be cleaned periodically to prevent buildup that can compete for oxygen and light.
Water-grown roots are more sensitive to harsh conditions than soil-grown roots. Maintain a location with bright, indirect light, avoiding any direct sun exposure that could overheat the water and stress the root system. Proper cleaning and water replacement are the primary actions that sustain the plant in this soilless environment.
Nutrient Requirements and Common Issues
The greatest challenge for long-term growth in water is providing adequate nutrition, as plain tap water contains almost no usable elements for plant survival. While the ZZ plant can rely on stored energy within its rhizomes for a time, it will eventually face severe nutrient deficiencies. To prevent this, the plant requires a complete, balanced liquid fertilizer specifically formulated for hydroponics.
This nutrient solution must contain all macro and micronutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The hydroponic solution should be diluted significantly, often to a quarter or half strength, and added during the bi-weekly water changes. Over-fertilizing is a risk, as it can cause a damaging buildup of mineral salts on the roots and the vessel walls.
Root rot remains a primary concern in water culture, even with regular water changes. Healthy water roots are light-colored and firm, whereas rotting roots appear brown, soft, and mushy, often spreading to the rhizome. If detected, the affected roots must be trimmed away, and the water must be replaced immediately with a fresh, sterile solution to stop the decay from progressing.