So, you ready to learn how to trim your trusty ZZ plant? This hardy and low-maintenance plant is a great option for busy plant parents, but even it needs a little upkeep every now and then.
But don’t worry, I’m here to guide you through the process step-by-step so you can keep your ZZ looking lush and full.
But first, let’s talk about the tools you’ll need:
- A clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears
- A pair of gloves (optional, but recommended to protect your hands from the plant’s sap)
Before we get started, understand that the best time to trim your ZZ plant is during the spring or summer when it’s actively growing.
So with that, let’s let’s dive right in!
Trimming Your ZZ Plant!
Let’s say you have a ZZ plant that’s been growing in your living room for a few months. When you take a closer look at it, you notice that it has a few yellowing leaves near the bottom and a couple of leggy stems that are taller than the rest of the plant. Here’s how you would trim it:
1. Remove Dead or Yellowing Leaves
The first step in trimming your ZZ plant is to remove any dead or yellowing leaves. These leaves not only detract from the plant’s overall appearance, but they can also harbor pests or diseases that could spread to the rest of the plant.
To remove dead or yellowing leaves, simply grasp the leaf near the base (where it meets the stem) and give it a gentle tug. The leaf should come off easily. If it doesn’t, use your scissors or pruning shears to snip it off at the base.
2. Cut back Leggy Stems
Another thing you’ll want to keep an eye out for while trimming your ZZ plant are leggy stems. These are stems that have grown taller than the rest of the plant, giving it a lopsided appearance.
To cut back leggy stems, use your scissors or pruning shears to snip the stem back to a point where it branches off into multiple stems. This will encourage the plant to grow bushier and fuller.
3. Propagate Your Plant
While you’re trimming your ZZ plant, you might come across a stem that has a few leaves on it but doesn’t have any roots. This is a perfect opportunity to propagate your plant!
To propagate your ZZ plant, simply snip the stem with a few leaves on it, and place it in a glass of water. Make sure the leaves are above the water line.
Keep the glass of water in a bright place but not in direct sunlight. In a few weeks, you’ll see roots growing from the bottom of the stem. Once the roots are a few inches long, you can plant it in a pot with soil.
4. Clean Your Shears
Once you’ve finished trimming your ZZ plant, make sure to clean your scissors or pruning shears with alcohol or soap and water. This will prevent the spread of any pests or diseases to your other plants.
Here is a video about trimming ZZ plants:
Final Say on ZZ Plant Trimming!
And that’s it! You’re now a pro at trimming your ZZ plant. Remember to trim your plant during the spring or summer, remove dead or yellowing leaves, cut back leggy stems, and propagate your ZZ plant.
And one last thing, don’t be afraid to trim your ZZ plant, it’s a hardy plant and can handle it. And, it will reward you with new growth, and a bushier and fuller plant.
