Natural Rooting Hormones: Alternative Solution to Plant Propagation


Key Takeaways

  • Gardeners and horticulturists frequently use rooting hormones to promote strong, healthy roots in plant cuttings.
  • There are natural alternatives to synthetic rooting hormone products that work just as well in sprouting roots when propagating plants.
  • Some natural rooting hormones include:
    • Honey 
    • Cinnamon
    • Apple cider vinegar
    • Willow water
    • Hydrogen peroxide
  • As more gardeners adopt eco-friendly and sustainable practices, the use of natural alternatives to rooting hormones is becoming increasingly common.
  • Incorporating natural alternatives into gardening practices can lead to thriving plants while contributing to a healthier environment.

Rooting hormones promote the development of strong, healthy roots in plant cuttings.

However, many individuals are now seeking natural alternatives to synthetic rooting hormone products, both to lessen their environmental impact and to maintain a sustainable approach to gardening.

The good news is that there are a number of natural alternatives supported by research that can successfully replace synthetic rooting hormones.

One easy-to-find and cost-effective natural option is willow water, derived from the branches of the willow tree, which contains salicylic acid and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), both of which are known to foster root growth.

Rooting Hormones alternativesPin

Another popular option is honey, which can be made into a rooting hormone by mixing it with boiling water.

With its antibacterial and antifungal properties, honey not only supports root growth but also protects the cut from disease.

Additionally, hydrogen peroxide can be a useful alternative to rooting hormones, as it acts as a disinfectant rather than a hormone, creating a cleaner environment for the cuttings.

As more gardeners adopt eco-friendly and sustainable practices, the use of natural alternatives to rooting hormones is becoming increasingly common.

Types of Natural Alternatives to Rooting Hormones

Honey

Honey is not a rooting hormone, but it has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties that help guard against infections in plant cuttings.

Honey rootingPin

It contains several enzymes that can help promote plant propagation by stimulating root growth and providing the plant with the nutrients it needs to establish a strong root system. These compounds include:

  • Amylase: Converts starch into simple sugars that the plant can use for energy.
  • Protease: It breaks down proteins into amino acids that can be used by the plant for growth.
  • Invertase: Converts sucrose into glucose and fructose, which the plant can easily absorb.
  • Catalase: Breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, which can help prevent disease and promote root growth.
  • Glucose oxidase: Breaks down glucose into hydrogen peroxide and gluconic acid, which can help prevent disease and promote root growth.

These enzymes can help stimulate root growth and provide the plant with the nutrients it needs to establish a strong root system.

To make a honey rooting hormone, boil 2 cups of water, add 1 tablespoon of honey, let the mixture cool, and store it in a covered container away from light. It will last about two weeks.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon rooting hormonesPin

Cinnamon has natural anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties that can help prevent disease and promote root growth. It contains several compounds that can help plants propagate, including:

  • Cinnamaldehyde: A natural compound with antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help prevent disease and promote healthy root growth.
  • Eugenol: A natural compound with anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties that can help prevent disease and promote healthy root growth.
  • Tannins: Natural compounds that can help promote root growth and protect the plant from environmental stressors.
  • Calcium and potassium: Essential minerals that can help promote healthy root growth and overall plant health.

These compounds can help stimulate root growth, prevent disease, and promote overall plant health.

To use cinnamon as an alternative to rooting hormones, simply dip the end of the cutting into ground cinnamon before planting it in the soil.

This will help to prevent the growth of harmful fungi and encourage healthy root development.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera for rootingPin

Aloe vera gel contains enzymes and vitamins that promote root growth in plants.

It contains several compounds that can help the plant’s overall health and are very useful in propagating. These include:

  • Auxins: Plant hormones that stimulate root growth and cell division.
  • Gibberellins: Plant hormones that promote stem elongation and growth.
  • Salicylic acid: A natural compound that can help stimulate root growth and increase the plant’s resistance to disease.
  • Lignin: A polymer that helps strengthen plant cell walls and support stem growth.
  • Polysaccharides: Complex sugars that can help retain moisture and nutrients in the soil, promoting healthy root growth.

To use aloe vera as a natural rooting hormone, remove a fresh leaf from an aloe vera plant, cut it open, and dip the cutting directly into the gel.

Alternatively, you can blend the gel with water and pour it onto the planting hole or the container where the cutting will be planted.

Willow Water

Willow Water natural hormonePin

Willow (Salix spp.) is known for its natural rooting hormone properties It contains several compounds that can help root growth when propagating plants. These compounds include:

  • Indolebutyric acid (IBA): A natural plant hormone that stimulates root growth and cell division.
  • Salicylic acid: A natural compound that can help stimulate root growth and increase the plant’s resistance to disease.
  • Phenolic compounds: Natural compounds that can help protect the plant from environmental stressors and promote healthy root growth.
  • Potassium: An essential mineral that can help promote healthy root growth and overall plant health.

These compounds can help stimulate root growth, prevent disease, and promote overall plant health, making willow water a useful tool for propagating plants.

To make willow water, take a branch cutting and soak it in water for 24 hours. Strain the resulting liquid and use it as a rooting hormone alternative for your cuttings.

If willows are not available in your area, alternatives to willow water are to brew stinging nettle or comfrey tea. 

Apple Cider Vinegar 

Apple Cider Vinegar rootingPin

Apple cider vinegar is a popular and effective alternative to synthetic rooting hormones when propagating plants.

It contains naphthalene acetic acid, which has been shown in studies to encourage rooting. 

To make a homemade rooting hormone solution, combine 3 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar with 1 gallon of water.

Dip the cuttings into the solution and plant them right away. It’s important not to overdo it on the apple cider vinegar, as too much can hinder the rooting process.

Aspirin

Aspirin rooting hormonePin

Aspirin contains salicylic acid, which has beneficial effects on root growth in plants.

Salicylic acid is a natural plant hormone that can stimulate root growth and increase the plant’s resistance to disease.

When aspirin is dissolved in water and applied to plant cuttings, it can help promote root growth and increase the chances of successful propagation.

Salicylic acid can also help protect the plant from environmental stressors, such as drought and extreme temperatures, which can promote overall plant health and growth. 

To use aspirin as a natural rooting hormone, dissolve one standard aspirin tablet (325mg) in 1 gallon of water.

Soak the cuttings in the aspirin solution for a few hours before planting them in the soil.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen PeroxidePin

Though hydrogen peroxide is not a rooting hormone itself, it can help plants develop strong roots as it acts as a disinfectant.

Hydrogen peroxide contains oxygen, which can help stimulate root growth by providing the plant with additional oxygen to absorb.

When applied to plant cuttings, hydrogen peroxide can also help prevent disease by killing harmful bacteria and fungi that can cause root rot or other issues.

Additionally, hydrogen peroxide can help promote overall plant health by increasing the oxygen levels in the soil and promoting nutrient uptake.

However, it’s important to dilute hydrogen peroxide properly before using it on plants, as high concentrations can be harmful to plant tissue. 

To use hydrogen peroxide as a rooting hormone alternative, mix a solution of 1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide to 9 parts water and dip the cuttings in this mixture before planting.

Pros and Cons of Using Natural Alternatives for Instead of Rooting Hormones

Pros Cons Of Natural AlternativesPin

Effectiveness

Natural alternatives to rooting hormones have their benefits, but their effectiveness may vary compared to synthetic options.

For instance, willow tree bark contains salicylic acid and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), which help promote root growth.

However, the effectiveness of these alternatives may not be as thoroughly proven or as consistent as that of synthetic hormones.


Related: If natural products simply aren’t working and you will consider synthetic hormones, try this rooting hormone gel. It simply works because we see roots sprout every time.


Cost

One of the advantages of using natural alternatives is their cost-effectiveness.

Many natural sources, such as willow water, can be created with minimal expenses by utilizing plant materials found in the environment.

This can provide a more affordable option for horticulturists and home gardeners compared to purchasing commercial rooting hormones.

Environment

Natural alternatives to rooting hormones have the potential to be more environmentally friendly than synthetic options.

Sustainability is a primary concern in modern agriculture, and by using natural alternatives, the use of synthetic chemicals can be reduced.

Additionally, natural rooting aids tend to have fewer negative side effects on the environment, such as reduced water and soil contamination.

However, it’s essential to remember that the effectiveness of natural alternatives can vary, and not all alternatives will deliver comparable results to synthetic rooting hormones.

Research and experimentation may be necessary to identify the ideal approach for individual plants and specific growing conditions.

Troubleshooting

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When using natural alternatives to rooting hormones, it’s important to address some common concerns that may arise.

  • Effectiveness: Natural alternatives might not always be as effective as synthetic rooting hormones. However, many have been proven to promote root growth, such as apple cider vinegar, willow water, and honey. To ensure optimal results, make sure to follow recommended application methods and concentrations.
  • Contamination: Some natural alternatives, like honey and cinnamon, can have antimicrobial properties, but there’s still a risk of introducing contaminants to your cuttings. It’s essential to use clean tools and a sterile environment when preparing and applying these substances.
  • Storage: Storing natural rooting hormone alternatives might be different from their synthetic counterparts. For example, honey rooting hormone should be stored away from light and used within two weeks, while cinnamon can be kept at room temperature in a dry, dark place. Always follow specific storage guidelines to keep these alternatives effective.
  • Concentrations: Different plants may respond better to varying concentrations of natural rooting hormone alternatives. For example, when using apple cider vinegar, a 3-teaspoon per gallon solution is generally recommended. However, you can experiment with slightly higher or lower concentrations in case cuttings are not responding well.

FAQ

What are the best natural rooting hormones to use when propagating plants?

There are several natural rooting hormones available that can be used as alternatives to commercial rooting hormones and synthetic hormones. Some of the most effective natural alternatives include willow water, aloe vera, coconut water, apple cider vinegar, honey, and cinnamon. These substances contain various nutrients and plant hormones that can promote root growth and help propagate plants without the need for synthetic products.

Can I make my own homemade rooting hormone for plant propagation?

Yes, you can make your own homemade rooting hormone using natural ingredients such as willow stems or branches, aloe vera gel, honey, and cinnamon. Homemade rooting hormones are often as effective as commercial rooting hormones, and they can be a more sustainable and eco-friendly option for plant propagation.

How do I prepare willow water as a natural rooting hormone?

To prepare willow water, gather young stems and branches from a willow tree. Strip the leaves and chop the stems into small pieces. Soak the stem pieces in water for 24–48 hours, after which strain the willow water. Use this liquid to soak the plant cuttings for several hours before planting them in a rooting medium. The naturally occurring indole-3-butyric acid and other plant hormones present in willow promote root growth and improve the chances of success while propagating plants.

Can aloe vera gel be used as a rooting hormone for plant cuttings?

Yes, aloe vera gel can be used as a natural rooting hormone for plant cuttings. Aloe vera contains various vitamins, enzymes, and plant growth hormones that help stimulate root growth. To use aloe vera gel as a rooting hormone, cut an aloe vera leaf and collect the gel. Dip the base of the cutting into the gel, ensuring that the wound is well coated, and then plant the cutting into the growing medium (such as soil or a soilless mix like rooting medium). Keep the medium moist and provide the cutting with indirect sunlight or a grow light. Aloe vera gel helps to seal the cut tissue, reduce the risk of infection, and promote new root growth. Although aloe vera gel may not be as potent as synthetic rooting hormones, it is an eco-friendly, natural, and safe alternative to promote plant propagation. 

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