Why Is My ZZ Plant Turning Yellow? An Expert Reveals the Common Care Mistake You're Making
Hint: Your care routine is where the problem lies, but tweaking it will get those leaves gloriously green in no time


ZZ plants, also known as Zanzibar gem, boast glossy dark green leaves that adorn tall, droopy stems, bringing so much character with their foliage alone.
And while these popular houseplants are not the fussiest of the lot, like any crop, they often encounter minor problems of their own. One of the most common issues that happens to be visually identifiable is that of yellowing leaves.
Worry not! If your ZZ plant is exhibiting yellowing leaves, there are ways of altering its care routine to fix it. We asked gardening experts for their top tips.
Why Are My ZZ Plant's Leaves Turning Yellow?
In conversation with gardening expert Tony O'Neill, he tells us that there are a couple of issues that could be leading to a ZZ plant's yellowing leaves. While they are cold-tolerant indoor plants, they do have other sensitivities that require attention.
"The symptom of yellowing leaves in ZZ plants can often be attributed to overwatering, which leads to root rot," he notes. "Or under-watering where the plant isn't receiving enough hydration."
Additionally, he goes on to explain that excessive direct sunlight can also cause the leaves to yellow.
While they are considered to be one of the best low-maintenance plants for indoor gardening, they still require their basic needs to be met. So these are some prime problems to keep an eye out for.
I'm Tony O'Neill, a gardening expert and best-selling author. I am an educator with a thriving YouTube channel that has 438,000 subscribers and receives over 1.4 million monthly views. Through my award-winning website, simplifygardening.com, I share my passion for gardening and sustainability. I've authored books including "Simplify Vegetable Gardening," "Composting Masterclass," and "Your First Vegetable Garden," empowering individuals to cultivate their own green spaces.
Can You Fix the Yellowing on a ZZ Plant?
"Yes, it’s often possible to correct the yellowing of leaves," says Tony. "Provided the cause is identified early and addressed properly."
This general hardiness is one of the reasons ZZ plants are classified as one of the best houseplants for beginner gardeners. So if you're turning over a new leaf with this rewarding hobby and are having trouble with your ZZ plant's yellowing leaves, you still have a chance to save it from becoming garden fodder.
How to Fix the Yellowing on a ZZ Plant?
If you're looking to remedy your houseplant's yellowing leaves, Tony tells us that the process is fairly easy to adopt and quick to action.
First, he recommends assessing the watering schedule and making sure it’s not excessive. His pro tip for mastering the perfect watering routine for ZZ plants is to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
"If overwatering is the issue, you may need to repot the plant in fresh soil and ensure the pot has good drainage," he notes. "Just be sure to cut back any mushy, brown roots before repotting."
If underwatering is the problem at play, he recommends establishing a consistent watering routine. "This way you can ensure your ZZ plant gets just enough moisture without becoming waterlogged," he says.
Last but not least, if your ZZ plant is enduring long hours of harsh sunlight, reposition your crop so it isn't privy to overexposure. Plus, you can always pop them in a dim corner since these low-light houseplants thrive in moderate lighting.
If you tend to be a bit of an anxious plant parent and your ZZ plant's yellowing leaves had you feeling solemn at first sight, we're here to tell you that all your plant needs is an amended care routine.
Watering houseplants to perfection can be quite a tricky task, which explains the reason why it happens to be a common culprit. However, with a dash of patience and a rejigged hydration routine, your ZZ plant will be back to sporting its green sheen super soon.
Price: $56
Planter Color: Macadamia
This Small ZZ Plant from Lively Root comes pre-grown in a pretty planter, allowing for a quick spruce to any small spaces.
FAQs
What Does an Overwatered ZZ Plant Look Like?
According to Tony, an overwatered ZZ plant typically has yellowing leaves that may also be soft and mushy to the touch. "You might also notice a moldy or rotting smell from the soil, indicating root rot," he says.
If you notice either of these problems affecting your ZZ plant, chances are that you're drowning your crop in too much water.
Should a ZZ Plant Be Misted?
While we love the satisfaction of gently refreshing our plants with a pretty mister, Tony tells us that ZZ plants do not require misting.
"They're known to thrive in low-humidity environments," he explains. "So additional humidity from misting is unnecessary and can contribute to issues like leaf rot."
Be The First To Know
The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.
Amiya is a Home Wellness Writer at Livingetc. She recently graduated with a Masters Degree in Magazine Journalism from City, University of London, and has lent her words to beauty, fashion, and health sections of lifestyle publications including Harper’s Bazaar and Women’s Health. Her experience as a research analyst has equipped her with an eye for emerging trends. When she’s off the clock, she can be found reading, listening to music, or overanalyzing her latest Co-Star update.
-
The Edgy 'Grunge' Aesthetic Is Making a Comeback, and Here's How to Channel It Through Your Interiors
Maybe it doesn't need to be just a phase... While subversive at its core, the grunge movement can manifest itself as practical, stylish, and refined
By Devin Toolen Published
-
6 Bed Linen Care Mistakes to Avoid If You Want Your Sheets to Look Good for Longer
Washing, drying, and storing your bed linen properly is the key to longer-lasting sheets that stay smooth and soft
By Lilith Hudson Published
-
Believe It or Not, 'Fridge Feng Shui' Is a Thing — And These Are the 6 Things You Should Be Doing for It
Even concealed appliances like fridges count in the world of Feng Shui. So if you're keen on optimizing the energy in this space, here's how to do it
By Amiya Baratan Published
-
The 52 Weeks Decluttering Challenge Is a Year-Long Process to Tidying Your Home — Here's How to Complete It
If you appreciate an in-depth, detailed approach to home organization, this 52 week challenge will help you maintain a consistently tidy living space.
By Amiya Baratan Published
-
Burning Palo Santo Is the Scenting Ritual Feng Shui Practitioners Recommend for Home Healing — These Are the Benefits
Burning palo santo isn't just about infusing your home with that classic woody aroma, it's also about cleansing in Feng Shui. And here's why you should try it.
By Amiya Baratan Published
-
Should You Buy an IKEA Kitchen? Here's What a Professional Designer Thinks of This Budget Kitchen Brand
Are IKEA kitchens worth it? We weigh up the pros and cons of the Swedish furniture brand's kitchen offering, so you know what to expect
By Faiza Saqib Published
-
Balcony Storage Ideas — 6 Concepts to Transform Your Deck into an Organized Outdoor Space
If you have a balcony holding outdoor gear and miscellaneous items, these expert tips will make sure your belongings are organized with nifty storage solutions.
By Amiya Baratan Published
-
5 Things That Are Disrupting Your Garden's Feng Shui That You Might Not Know About
If you're interested in getting your garden Feng Shui ready for spring, adopt these expert dos now. Also, remember to avoid the don'ts for a harmonious space.
By Amiya Baratan Published
-
8 Actually-Stylish Utility Room Countertop Ideas — Because, Yes It Needs to Be Practical, But You Want It to Look Good, Too
Layouts and materials that will make your daily chores more enjoyable
By Seraphina Kyprios Published
-
6 Easy Things You Can Do Today to Feng Shui Your Front Door — And Supercharge Your Home's Good Energy
Set the bar for good first impressions by enhancing your front door with the power of Feng Shui. It's simple with these tips from practitioners
By Amiya Baratan Published