Can I propagate plants without rooting hormones?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Root cuttings easily without the use of commercial rooting hormones by tapping into nature-based alternatives.Soaking willow branches in water will result in the leaching of rooting compounds from the willow. Aloe vera gel acts as a natural fungicide and prophylactic against cuttings disease. My neighbor roots her roses with honey, which acts as a rooting compound through its enzymes. Before buying any products, try the basic kitchen items.
Willow Water Prep
- Chop fresh willow stems into 1-inch pieces
- Soak in warm water for 24-48 hours
- Strain liquid, use as rooting solution
Aloe Vera Application
- Slice leaf to extract gel
- Coat cutting base before planting
- Reapply weekly to soil for antifungal benefits
Commercial hormones thrive with stubborn plants. My apple tree cuttings failed until I applied the indole-3-butyric acid gel. For some rare species or time-sensitive projects, products like these are well worth the money. Practicality can sometimes trump eco-friendliness. Synthetic products sometimes save in months of shorter and much quicker trial and error.
High-Stakes Scenarios
- Propagating patented or rare plant varieties
- Short growing seasons requiring fast roots
- Reviving diseased cuttings needing extra support
Test techniques side by side. I started minting in honey and willow water. Willow water was 30% faster than honey. Always label your experiments for dates and formulas. Report back to gardening groups on your results. Sustainable propagation will accommodate your plants' needs and your local resources.
Read the full article: The Complete Guide to Grow From Cuttings Successfully
