Yes, you can put a ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) outside during the summer, but it must be done with careful consideration for its specific needs. While it is a remarkably resilient houseplant, the outdoor environment presents a different set of challenges. Moving your ZZ plant outside can provide it with a boost in growth due to increased light and fresh air, but it is not a sun-loving desert cactus. Here is a detailed guide from the plant's perspective.
From my point of view as a ZZ plant, my native habitat is the forest floor in Eastern Africa, where I receive bright but filtered light through the canopy of taller trees. My glossy, waxy leaves are adapted for absorbing light in these low-light conditions, not for withstanding direct, harsh sunlight. Placing me in direct sun, especially the intense afternoon sun, will quickly scorch my leaves, causing unsightly brown, crispy patches. This damage is permanent and weakens my system. The perfect spot for me outdoors is on a patio, under a dense tree, or on a north-facing side of your home where I can enjoy the brightness of the day without being exposed to the sun's direct rays.
I thrive in typical household temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C - 29°C). I can tolerate the heat of a summer day, but I am extremely sensitive to cold. Any temperature below 45°F (7°C) can cause significant cold damage, shock my rhizomes (my water-storing roots), and potentially kill me. It is crucial that you only move me outside once nighttime temperatures are consistently and reliably above this threshold. Furthermore, do not just move me abruptly. Acclimate me over a week by placing me in a shaded spot for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the time I spend outside. This prevents transplant shock and allows my leaves to adjust to the increased light levels.
My rhizomes allow me to be incredibly drought-tolerant indoors, but outdoor conditions can dry out my soil much faster due to wind and warmer air temperatures. You must adjust your watering routine. Check my soil moisture more frequently—perhaps once a week. The rule remains the same: water me only when the top few inches of soil are completely dry. I am far more susceptible to root rot from overwatering than I am from underwatering. Ensure my pot has excellent drainage holes and that I am never left sitting in a saucer of water, especially after a summer rain shower.
Being outside exposes me to insects that I would never encounter indoors. Keep a watchful eye on my stems and the undersides of my leaves for common pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. A strong spray of water or an application of insecticidal soap or neem oil can usually manage any infestations. It is also worth noting that the boost in light and warmth may trigger a growth spurt. If I become root-bound in my container, my growth may stall. If you notice my rhizomes are overcrowded, summer is a good time to repot me into a container only one size larger.
