The Zamioculcas is a hardy plant that is not easily affected by pests and diseases. However, she is not entirely immune to it.
The Zamioculcas or also called lucky feather is a robust and popular green houseplant. The hardy Zamioculcas is resistant to most pests and diseases, and it doesn't take too much care wrong.
Nevertheless, you should keep an eye on your lucky feather so that you can quickly identify and treat any pests or plant diseases.
Avoid disease with proper care
If the lucky feather gets whitish-green to yellow leaves, severe root rot can occur as a result. In the worst case, the plant will die off completely. In most cases, the cause can be found in the fact that the Zamioculcas has received too much water. Basically, the plant needs little water. Water only when the top layer of soil has dried out. The root ball itself should remain moist. In practice, however, lucky feathers also survive if they are not watered for a while. Ensure that there is a good drainage so that no water remains in the pot. Water even less in the winter months than in the summer.
But if it happened that the Zamioculcas was too wet for a long time, there is still a lot that can be saved. Replant the lucky feather right away, and you will also discover the roots that are already affected. Cut off the rotten parts generously and let the remaining roots dry well before planting the plant in fresh substrate. Well suited is a loose, sandy soil. In the future, water very carefully, but spray the leaves from time to time, especially if the heating air is very dry.
» No need to worry: When the lucky feather sheds leaves, it regulates its own water balance. This is usually the case at the beginning of winter. The leaves grow back in spring.
Detecting and combating pests on the Zamioculcas
In winter, when the air in the room is warm and dry, spider mites and red spiders often appear on indoor plants. On the leaf axils and between the pinnate leaves you can seefine web. The pests suck plant sap from the leaves, the leaves turn whitish to light gray and develop ugly spots on the upper side. Then at the latest you will discover the annoying mites on the leaves with the naked eye.
You can prevent this with increased humidity: Spraying the plant and setting up a fountain helps. In the event of an infestation, give the whole plant a lukewarm shower. Then pack the lucky feather in a plastic bag for a few days. A warm, humid climate forms inside, which kills the spider mites and their offspring. If you find a very severe infestation, use systemic agents that reliably kill the parasite (My recommendation: Compo Schädlings-frei Plus).
At a glance: Five quick tips for a he althy lucky feather
- Water rather little, in winter even less than in summer
- Repot the plant if there is too much water, remove rotten roots
- Ensure sufficient humidity in winter
- Control spider mites and red spider: lukewarm shower, plastic bag for a warm, humid climate, use systemic pesticides if necessary