Why Is My ZZ Plant Not Growing? How to Get New Shoots

A ZZ plant that isn’t growing is usually just being a ZZ plant. Even healthy ones put out only a few new stems a year, and they pause completely in winter.

If yours has stalled for a whole spring and summer, though, one of the causes below is probably holding it back.

How Fast Should a ZZ Plant Grow?

In bright, indirect light, expect a handful of new stems each growing season. In low light, one or two a year is common. Nothing at all from October to February is normal.

Not Enough Light

Low light is the most common reason for slow growth. Move it closer to a bright window, or add a grow light.

Check price on Amazon. More in ZZ plant light requirements.

It Is Resting for Winter

Shorter days and cooler rooms slow ZZ plants to a stop. Water less, skip fertilizer, and expect new shoots once spring arrives.

Crowded Rhizomes

When the pot is packed with thick rhizomes, there’s no room for new shoots. You may see roots bulging against the pot or even cracking it.

Repot in spring into a pot one size up, with fresh, fast-draining soil. See the best soil for ZZ plants.

Too Much or Too Little Water

Overwatered rhizomes rot and stop producing shoots. Bone-dry soil for months also stalls growth. Water deeply only when the soil is completely dry.

A Hungry Plant

After a few years in the same soil, a ZZ may be low on nutrients. Feed with half-strength houseplant food once or twice in late spring and summer.

An all-purpose indoor plant food is all it needs.

How to Encourage New Shoots

• Give it the brightest indirect light you can.
• Keep it warm, between 65 and 80 °F.
• Water deeply, but only when dry.
• Feed lightly in spring and summer.
• Repot every 2 to 3 years.

Patience helps too. New shoots often appear all at once, rising like tightly rolled spears from the soil. For daily care, see my ZZ plant care guide.

Growth Questions