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Zamioculcas Zamiifolia, also known as ZZ plant, is a gorgeous tropical plant native to Eastern Africa. ZZ plant cold tolerance is low compared to some other house plants.
Although it’s sturdy and low maintenance, ZZ plant requires special care during winter. Otherwise, they may suffer from a few issues, including leaf dropping and leggy growth.
In this article, you’ll learn more about ZZ plant minimum temperature requirements and how to care for it during winter.
ZZ Plant Minimum Temperature Requirements
ZZ plants grow optimally when kept in temperatures between 60 and 75°F with average humidity.
This type of plant can handle colder temperatures, but you should never place it in areas where it gets colder than 45°F. That’s the minimum temperature it can tolerate.
Common Winter Problems of ZZ Plants
ZZ plants are used to the hot weather as they grow natively in places like Kenya and South Africa. That’s why they’re not well adapted to the cold.
If you’re unaware of your plant’s requirements with weather changes, you may start noticing some issues.
Usually, ZZ plants suffer from a few problems related to the cold weather, including:
1 – Slow Growth
Naturally, ZZ plants go dormant during winter. It’s just the plant’s coping mechanism with the cold temperatures.
Even during the plant’s growing season, the growth rate of ZZ plants isn’t high.
As a result of the cold, the ZZ plant’s metabolism slows down, causing it to grow more slowly than it normally does.
2 – Dropping Leaves
ZZ plants are generally happier in temperatures above 60°F. Sadly, they start to suffer gradually as the weather gets colder.
Over time, the leaves may droop or even fall off entirely.
Can ZZ Plants Survive Winter?
ZZ plant is popular for its amazing looks and deep green foliage. People also admire this plant because of its ability to tolerate harsh conditions, such as darkness and drought.
With proper care, your ZZ plant can survive the coldest of winters. All you need to do is know what your plant needs during such time.
How To Care for ZZ Plants in Winter?
Generally, ZZ plants are quite easy to care for. In winter, this type of plant may require only a few tweaks to their everyday routine.
Other than that, you shouldn’t worry much about your ZZ plant during the cold months. Here’s what you need to do.
1 – Light
It’s essential to ensure that your ZZ plant gets enough light in winter. Ideally, it needs about six hours a day of indirect sunlight.
So, you should move your ZZ plant to a brighter area in your house as winter approaches.
Additionally, make sure to wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth. Doing so helps the plant get the maximum sunlight needed for optimum photosynthesis.
2 – Water
Due to their inactivity during winter, ZZ plants require far less water than usual. You may not even need to water your ZZ plant at all if the air in your house is humid.
If the air in your house is dry, you only need to cut back on the number and amount of watering. In all cases, you should only water your ZZ plant when the soil is completely dry.
3 – Temperature and Humidity
During winter, you may need to move your ZZ plant to a warm room where the temperature is above 60°F. Plus, keep it away from cold drafts.
That said, don’t consider placing your ZZ plant near the fireplace. The plant is as sensitive to heat as it is to the cold.
As for humidity, it’s better to keep it above 50%. Your ZZ plant will thank you for that whether you move it to a more humid area or use a humidifier.
What To Avoid During Winter
ZZ plants don’t grow much in the cold. Thus, you should avoid fertilizing the plant in winter as it can cause the soil to dry out.
In addition, you should never consider repotting your ZZ plant during cold weather. Doing that can stress the plant out and cause shock, affecting its growth.
Final Thoughts
ZZ plants are a delight to have at home because they’re easy to care for. However, they may have special requirements during winter.
In general, ZZ plant cold tolerance isn’t great. That’s why you should know how to handle this sturdy plant in cold months.
All you need to do is maintain proper temperature and humidity by locating the plant in a suitable area. Additionally, avoid repotting or fertilizing the plant during winter to keep it healthy.
Dealing with plants’ problems can be stressful. Yet, once you get the hang of it, everything works out just fine.
Lisa Bridenstine
Growing up with a mom who filled her home (inside and out) with all sorts of plants, Lisa got her start in gardening at a young age. Living now on her own with a home and yard full of plants (including an indoor greenhouse), she shares all the gardening tips she’s gained over the years.
