potted_plant
ZZ Plant care requirements
water
Every 2–4 weeks. Stores water in rhizomes.
soil
Well-draining potting or cactus mix.
light
Low to bright indirect light. Very tolerant.
symptoms
Symptoms to look for in ZZ Plant
Rhizomes and roots turn brown to black and mushy, often with a sour smell, and above-ground stems yellow or collapse despite the plant's usual toughness.
help
Common causes in ZZ Plant
The Pythium and Phytophthora fungi behind root rot need consistently moist soil to establish — ZZ Plant's long 2–4 week drying cycle between waterings exists specifically to deny these pathogens the damp conditions they need.
healing
How to treat root rot in ZZ Plant
Remove the plant, cut away all affected rhizome and root tissue with a sterilised blade, and repot healthy sections into fresh, well-draining mix. Avoid watering for at least a week after repotting.
shield
Preventing root rot in ZZ Plant
Use a well-draining potting or cactus mix, ensure the pot has drainage holes, and water only every 2–4 weeks once soil is fully dry.