The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a total rockstar in the houseplant world, and if you’re looking to grow your collection, you’ve got options! One of the easiest ways to get more “green” for your buck is by simply dividing the mother plant into several separate plants. Let’s walk through the best way to tackle this division project.
Different Ways to Propagate Your ZZ Plant
There are actually a few different ways to propagate a ZZ plant. The most common methods include:
- Growing new plants from offsets
- Using leaf or stem cuttings
- Dividing the main plant (our focus today!)
Why Dividing Your ZZ Plant is a Great Idea
Dividing your ZZ plant is super straightforward. If your plant has become a bit of a beast and is outgrowing its space, don’t just prune it back. Instead, take the opportunity to split it into smaller plants. This keeps the original plant at a manageable size while giving you brand-new ZZ plants to keep or gift to friends. It’s a win-win!
Step-by-Step: How to Divide Your ZZ Plant
If you’re ready to turn one ZZ plant into many, there are a few things to keep in mind. Just follow these steps for the best results:
- Carefully lift the ZZ plant out of its pot and shake off or brush away the soil from the roots.
- Take a good look at the root system. Use a sharp knife or clean garden shears to snip away any old, dried-out, or mushy roots.
- Gently untangle the roots with your fingers. Try your best not to damage the healthy ones.
- Give the plant a gentle tug to see where it naturally wants to pull apart. This helps you find the best spot to make your split.
- Use a sharp, clean knife to cut through the rhizome (that bulbous part under the soil) at your chosen spot.
- Make sure each new section has at least one strong, healthy stem attached.
- Pot each new ZZ plant into its own separate container with fresh soil.
Pro Tip: Divide While Repotting
The absolute best time to divide your ZZ plant is when you’re already repotting it. Since you’ve already got the plant out of its pot and you’re cleaning up the roots anyway, it’s the perfect moment to split it into two (or more!) pieces. Just pop each section into its own new home, and you’re good to go!
