Roots of succulent plants are like the foundation of growth, responsible for absorbing and transporting nutrients. When it comes to rooting and nurturing, many people turn to "rooting hormones". But what exactly are these hormones? Can we use them every day for fertilization? And how should we use them? Let's find out!

What are succulent rooting hormones?

Succulent rooting hormones are great for promoting the growth and rooting of leaves and cuttings. They can mimic natural auxins and stimulate cell division and growth, helping to form new roots.

When the natural hormones in succulents are insufficient, external hormones can be stimulate growth. This can increase the success rate of succulent propagation and help cuttings grow healthily.

Some common rooting hormones for succulents include IBA and NAA.

However, please note that while some natural substances like cinnamon, honey, and apple cider vinegar are often referred to as "succulent rooting hormones," they mainly protect cuts from harmful fungal attacks and their effectiveness in promoting rooting has not been scientifically proven.

The impact of succulent rooting agents

Function

Succulent rooting agents contain hormones or compounds that stimulate root growth, helping the plant to establish itself more quickly when propagating from cuttings.

Succulent rooting agents lead to better nutrient absorption, increased stress resistance, and healthier and stronger succulent growth.

Bad effect

Excessive use of rooting hormones can lead to issues with succulent plants, such as abnormal growth and chemical damage.

High hormone concentrations may cause overly dense root systems, slow growth, and smaller or deformed leaves. Furthermore, it can cause skin and respiratory irritation in humans and lead to environmental pollution.

It is essential to use rooting hormones properly and responsibly.

Succulent plant rooting hormone

Rooting Gel

Rooting gel has good adhesion and can form a protective film around the cutting or cutting area of the succulent plant. It can adhere to the plant long enough to maintain the rooting hormone effect.

Rooting gel is more suitable for all kinds of situations; for succulent walls or vertical cultivation environments, rooting gel may be more practical because its viscosity can better adhere to the cutting of the planted plant to prevent loss due to gravity.

Collect your propagation cuttings and make sure the wounds are dry. Put the rooting gel in a small container or culture dish to better control the chemicals you put into the cutting. According to the instructions, immerse the propagation stem cuttings in a gel bowl. Typically, the gel should appear about one-fourth of an inch on the stem. Then, push the propagation material directly into the succulent potting soil.

Rooting Liquid

The rooting solution is a great way to propagate succulents. It can be applied evenly to the stem or cut of the plant, and is quickly absorbed by the growing plant. The concentration of the solution can also be easily adjusted to suit your needs.

There are different ways to use the rooting solution depending on the situation. For cuttings, dry the wound of the propagation material, immerse it in the rooting concentrate for 3-4 minutes, and then insert it into moist soil. Depending on the product used, the concentrate can be diluted.

If the succulent roots are not growing well and the plant leaves are in poor condition, use the rooting solution. Dilute the liquid using the ratio on the instructions and water the plant using the soak and dry watering method.

A rooting solution can also be used when growing succulents in water. Add a specific percentage of rooting solution to the water to encourage the succulents to send out roots.

Rooting Powder

Rooting powder is a cost-effective way to propagate succulents. It can be applied to the cutting area and is available in powder form. The best rooting compound for hydroponics is powdered.

To use rooting powder for succulent propagation, dissolve it in water and dip the propagation material in the solution. For leaf plugs, use a 1/2- to 1-inch-long stem, and for stem plugs, use a stem length of 3 to 6 inches. Cut the stems from about 1/4 inch below the node, and remove enough lower leaves to insert 1/3 of the stem into the rooting medium before dipping the cut surface into the rooting powder solution.

You can also mix the rooting powder into the soil and stir well to dissolve and absorb the powder when watering. Alternatively, you can dilute the rooting powder in water and water succulents with it.

The rate depends on the growth rate of the succulent itself. Some succulents root within 1-2 weeks, while others may take several months. Rooting hormones expedites this process and increases the success rate, no matter how much you desire those new roots! Most importantly, each product's usage instructions and dilution ratios may vary. So, the first step is to read the instructions to understand the specific usage methods and precautions of the product you purchased.

Natural 'Rooting Hormones'

1. Willow Water: Willow water contains ingredients like salicylic acid, which is known to promote root growth in succulents. If you want to use willow water as a rooting hormone, all you have to do is find some willow branches and place them in a container filled with water (a ratio of 1:2). Wait for 1-2 days before immersing the succulent cuttings and soak them for about one day.

2. Honey: Honey is not only yummy but also beneficial for your plants. It contains natural plant extracts and minerals that have antibacterial properties and can promote plant growth. Some succulent plant enthusiasts even use it for soaking or coating when propagating their plants.

3. Cinnamon: Cinnamon has natural anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties that can protect your cuttings. To use it, just sprinkle a little cinnamon powder evenly on the cut surface of your succulent cutting  before planting it in the rooting medium.

4. Apple cider vinegar: Did you know that apple cider vinegar is excellent because it has antibacterial properties? It's true! Remember, too much apple cider vinegar can also be harmful, so you only need a tablespoon of vinegar to mix with about 6 cups of water. Immerse the propagation material in the vinegar mixture to cover the cut surface, then transfer the cuttings to the rooting medium.

Conclusion

Succulent rooting hormones can be a great way to help succulents develop strong roots. That being said, it's essential to remember that using too much can harm your plants, so it's worth taking the time to read the instructions carefully and follow them closely. If you're interested in a more natural approach, there are some alternatives you can try. These are easy to make at home and can be a fun DIY project. Give them a try and see what works best for you!