Things You Should Never Do to a ZZ Plant in Summer

by

Things You Should Never Do to a ZZ Plant in Summer

The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is famous for being virtually indestructible, but even this low-maintenance houseplant has limits—especially during the summer months. High temperatures, intense sunlight, and rapid evaporation can stress your plant if you don’t adjust your care routine. To keep your ZZ plant healthy, glossy, and thriving, avoid these common summer mistakes that many indoor gardeners unknowingly make.

1. Don’t Put Your ZZ Plant in Direct Sunlight

ZZ plants grow naturally in shaded forest floors, so intense summer sunlight can scorch their leaves. Direct sun causes:

  • Yellowing
  • Brown edges
  • Burn spots
  • Drooping stems

What to do instead:
Place your ZZ plant in bright, indirect light or a spot with filtered sunlight. If kept near a window, use a sheer curtain to diffuse harsh rays.

2. Don’t Overwater (the Most Common Summer Mistake)

Heat makes many people water their plants more often, but ZZ plants store water in their rhizomes and hate excess moisture. Overwatering leads to:

  • Root rot
  • Mushy stems
  • Foul odors from the soil

Correct care:
Allow the soil to dry out at least 70–80% before watering again. In summer, this may still take 10–14 days depending on your climate and pot size.

3. Don’t Mist the Leaves

Many people mist plants in summer to boost humidity—but ZZ plants don’t need it. Misting can actually cause:

  • Leaf fungus
  • Bacterial spots
  • Water stains on foliage

ZZ plants adapt extremely well to dry indoor air, so humidity adjustments are unnecessary.

4. Don’t Use Heavy or Moisture-Retaining Soil

Summer heat intensifies the risk of soggy, compacted soil. Avoid:

  • Garden soil
  • Peat-heavy mixes
  • Soil without perlite or grit

These trap water and suffocate the roots.

Best choice:
Use a fast-draining indoor plant mix with perlite, pumice, or sand to improve airflow and moisture control.

5. Don’t Fertilize Too Often

While ZZ plants appreciate nutrients, over-fertilizing during summer can burn the roots and cause yellow leaves.

Fertilizer rules:

  • Feed once a month using a diluted liquid fertilizer.
  • Never fertilize dry soil—water first.
  • Avoid strong chemical fertilizers that cause salt buildup.

6. Don’t Leave It Outdoors in Summer Heat

Many people move houseplants outside for “fresh air,” but ZZ plants cannot handle:

  • Afternoon heatwaves
  • Sudden temperature changes
  • Intense UV exposure

Extreme heat causes the plant to wilt and collapse.

If you must place it outdoors:
Keep it under full shade and bring it inside whenever temperatures exceed 30°C (86°F).

7. Don’t Repot When It’s Extremely Hot

Repotting is stressful for any houseplant. Doing it during a summer heatwave puts the ZZ plant under double stress.

Best time to repot:
Spring or early summer, when temperatures are stable.

8. Don’t Ignore Pests

Warm weather encourages pests like:

  • Mealybugs
  • Scale
  • Spider mites

Because ZZ leaves are waxy and dense, pests can hide easily.

Inspect weekly and wipe leaves with a mild soapy-water solution if needed.

Final Thoughts

ZZ plants are among the easiest indoor plants to grow, but summer conditions can challenge even the toughest species. By avoiding overwatering, harsh sunlight, poor soil, and excessive fertilizer, you’ll keep your ZZ plant vibrant and healthy all season. Follow these simple tips, and your ZZ plant will remain one of the most reliable, low-maintenance additions to your home.

Leave a Comment