9 Best Rooting Hormones of 2023
There’s no better sight than a garden full of luscious greens! We often say that a gardener is born and not made, for adept gardening skills are nothing short of a superpower. But what if we tell you that sincere practice, with some assistance, can make you a pro at the job? Yes, we are […]
There’s no better sight than a garden full of luscious greens!
We often say that a gardener is born and not made, for adept gardening skills are nothing short of a superpower. But what if we tell you that sincere practice, with some assistance, can make you a pro at the job?
Yes, we are talking about rooting hormones, which guide your plant’s growth in the right direction. Besides, these supplements come in especially handy when cloning the best of your flora. Whether you’re a novice or a veteran, we’re sure you won’t mind this little extra help!
So that the plethora of options doesn’t make you think otherwise, we’ve tested the 9 best rooting hormones to help you make a sensible choice. Now, sit back and relax as we tell you what worked for us, and what didn’t.
Let’s dive in!
Best Rooting Hormones
1. HydroDynamics Clonex Rooting Gel
Reigning in the top position is the HydroDynamics Clonex Rooting Gel. This water-based translucent hormone is a nice mix of nutrients that promotes cell development and protects the plant from infections. With a long shelf life, this is one of the most cost-effective products on the market.
- Clonex is a high performance, water-based, rooting compound
- Contains a full spectrum of mineral nutrients and trace...
Why Did We Like It?
Straight off the bat, we were impressed with the positive customer feedback. The perfect blend of hormones, nutrients, and minerals comes in a tenacious gel formula that clings to the stem and seals the cut tissue. As a result, the new cells remain fully protected for fast and healthy development.
Furthermore, the presence of anti-fungal ingredients reduces the chances of infection, thereby increasing the success rate.
We also loved how easy it was to use the product. All we had to do was pour a small amount of the gel into a clean shot glass and dip a fresh cut into it. Next, we placed the cutting in a moist and warm rooting medium. It took us around 10 days to observe the root developing on its own.
Besides, its gel-based formula minimizes spilling, so a little amount can go a long way. When properly refrigerated, the product can have a shelf life as high as up to a year. Considering its affordable price tag, we just can’t ask for more!
What Could’ve Been Better?
There’s almost no downside to this high-performing product that we can crib about. The only thing for which we had to pay extra attention was not to dip the cuttings into the bottle directly since that would have contaminated the formula. But then again, this is the least demanding task to achieve such productivity.
- Thick and sticky consistency
- Provides full nourishment to the young roots
- Works for a range of plant types
- Cost-efficient
- Cuts cannot be dipped into the bottle
2. Garden Safe 93194 Rooting Hormone
For the second pick, we have the Garden Safe Rooting Hormone. It’s an easy-to-use powder formula, containing similar hormones that naturally occur in plants. If you’re a first-time gardener looking for something easy and effective, then this product is worth considering.
- PROMOTES ROOTING: Rooting hormone grows new plants from...
- GROW CUTTINGS: Works with most popular home, garden and...
Why Did We Like It?
First things first, the positive reviews from existing customers made us want to try this product. The active ingredient, Indole-3-Butyric Acid closely resembles a rooting hormone that’s found in plants. This not only stimulates the development of young roots but also directs the required nutrients.
To use the product, simply dampen the cut ends and stir it in the powder before planting it in the desired location. Unlike gel rooting hormones, you can dip the plant into the container directly, and tap off the excess. And you don’t need to wear a mask or gloves. So if you’re looking to save some time and effort, then here is the chance!
Alternatively, you can also add the powder to the planting hole and then place the fresh cut in it. Both methods are equally effective.
Powder hormones have a longer shelf life, and this product is no exception. Moreover, you can use it for a majority of the commonly found homegrown plant varieties. For the affordable price tag, it outperformed our expectations and made it to the top of our list.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We used it to clone some flowering plants, and the success rate tempted us to try it on edible plants as well. However, upon reading the label, we couldn’t find any clear instructions for the said use. Apart from this, we didn’t notice any other shortcomings.
- Less messy application
- Doesn’t require a separate container
- Superior performance
- Can be used for greenhouse varieties
- May not be suitable for edible plants
3. Hydrofarm DG00201 Liquid Hormone Concentrate
The next entrant on this list is one of the best liquid rooting hormones on the market- the Hydrofarm Liquid Hormone Concentrate. Its unique self-sanitizing formula minimizes cross-contamination, thus enhancing the growth of new roots. Packed with a couple of essential root-inducing agents, this product is capable of producing high-quality clones every time.
Why Did We Like It?
For starters, its liquid concentrate formula contains both IBA and NAA, which are widely regarded as essential components for root growth. Plus, the ethyl and isopropyl alcohol solvents increase the absorption rate of the hormone, besides protecting the plants from infections and diseases.
You can easily dilute the concentrate using distilled water before dipping it in the fresh cuttings. Moreover, the product comes with a measuring cup for precise measurements. Since we tried it on a couple of hardwood plants, the dilution level was less in our case. Likewise, you can increase the amount of water when cloning softwood varieties.
On a side note, make sure that the cutting has a 6-inch long stem, and dip at least 1 inch of the cut into the diluted solution.
As for its shelf life, it can last for as long as 3 years when stored in the original container. There may be some darkening over time, but rest assured that this doesn’t hamper the productivity of this high-quality rooting hormone.
What Could’ve Been Better?
There are a number of things that didn’t quite appeal to us. If the solution is not used within 10 hours of being diluted, then it becomes ineffective and must be disposed of. So we’d recommend using a small amount in the beginning to avoid wastage. Also, it’s not safe for humans and pets, so put on your gloves and goggles during the process.
- Disinfecting formula
- Works for shrubs
- Easy to use
- Nearly 100% success rate
- Hazardous
4. General Hydroponics Rapid Start Rooting Enhancer
Another one of our picks in the liquid hormone category, the General Hydroponics Rapid Start Rooting Enhancer has a reputation for promoting the growth of stiff root hairs. Made from several natural extracts, it can stimulate the development of a variety of plants in just about any rooting medium.
- General Hydroponics RapidStart 1-0.5-1 is a plant food for...
- Promotes root growth through nutrient feeding
Why Did We Like It?
We like how this product has the right blend of Indole-3-Butyric Acid, plant extracts, amino acids, and nutrients. The combination of these much-needed agents aids the growth of strong root fibers and helps in root branching. Moreover, the new plants have a better root mass that, in turn, increases the nutrient intake for a strong and healthy growth cycle.
The concentration of the product was thicker than we liked, but it wasn’t long before we found its advantage. We began the process by adding 1 ml to a gallon of water, instead of the prescribed 2.5 ml. Using a little less than half the standard quantity, the root hairs started growing in only 6 days.
Its price may come across as a little expensive, but we have no doubts that this product is one of the most cost-effective rooting hormones that we can find in the category. If you’re looking to provide your beloved greens with a dose of strength and quality, then this might just be the perfect fit.
What Could’ve Been Better?
While we are all praised for the formula, it’s the packaging that we are a bit bothered about. Apart from the cap, there is a tightly secure inner plug on the mouth of the bottle, which is very difficult to remove. As a result, there’s a risk of spilling the liquid all over.
- Better root length
- Makes the roots virtually immune to breakage
- Doesn’t stain the roots
- Can be used for hydroponics
- Inconvenient packaging
5. RootBoost 100508075 Rooting Hormone
Let’s get back to another powder hormone, viz. the RootBoost 100508075. The professionally-used formula of this product is exclusively meant for ornamental plants like roses, succulents, and more. Now enhancing the beauty of your garden is as easy as ever!
- For faster rootings from cuttings
- Contains Hormodin 1
Why Did We Like It?
Our search for a specialized rooting hormone led us to this product, and we couldn’t have been more satisfied. The brand has paid special attention to creating the right mix of IBA and NAA that meets the professional standard. Furthermore, it’s a safe formula that won’t cause decay in young ornamental plants.
Simply moisten the ends of a 6-inch cut and dip it in the powder. Next, plant the stem in a moist medium, and wait for 3-5 weeks for the root to start growing. The application was similar to that of the Hydrofarm Liquid Hormone Concentrate, and even if you haven’t used a rooting powder before, this one won’t make you break a sweat.
While at it, we’d also like to mention that the product has no effect on existing plants. Moreover, it shouldn’t be diluted and must be taken out in small amounts. Though the instructions can become a bit limiting, we were more than happy to see that the hormone stays true to its purpose. If the product delivers what it promises, your investment becomes worth it!
What Could’ve Been Better?
The flour-like consistency tends to form lumps, and it can be challenging to take a small quantity by just shaking the container. We’d have loved it if the package came with a spoon or spatula to solve the problem. Also, the hormone cannot be used for rooting in water.
- High success rate
- Nourishes dry roots
- Sticks to the cuts
- Inexpensive
- Harmful for children and pets
6. Bonide Bontone Rooting Powder
The sixth pick for the list is a powder-based rooting hormone from the house of Bonide. This multi-purpose growth stimulation product can be used on various plants for producing strong root fibers within days. It’s an effective, fast, and inexpensive method for cloning your favorite plants.
- PROMOTES DEVELOPMENT - Once applied, this powder promotes...
- WORKS ON BULBS AND SEEDS - This product is not exclusive to...
Why Did We Like It?
Bonide has been in the garden-care industry for almost a century, and this product is a perfect example of how the brand has lived up to its name. The concentration of IBA hormone, along with other nourishing ingredients promotes healthy and denser-looking roots within a short span.
Apart from working on cuttings, the powder hormone can also be used for other plant parts like seeds and bulbs. All you have to do is gently coat the parts with some powder before burrowing them into the soil. Since it doesn’t need to be diluted, you don’t have to worry about making a watery mess.
Moreover, the product facilitates the growth of healthy root hairs during the transplantation of young plants, making it easier to move them from one place to the other. There aren’t a lot of hormones that have such versatile use in the price range, so consider this for getting your money’s worth.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Although it can be used for propagating a good variety of plants, we are not sure if it’s capable enough to grow roses or any other difficult species, for that matter. Also, the IBA concentration is devoid of anti-fungal properties, thereby increasing the risk of infections and rotting.
- Low rooting time
- Suitable for hardwood and softwood cuttings
- Multi-purpose utility
- Value for money
- Doesn’t prevent fungus growth
7. Hormex Fertilizer
Another one of our preferred multi-use products is the Hormex Fertilizer. Even though the name may tell you otherwise, its rooting capabilities are just as good as any other hormone. Compatible with almost any growing medium, less than a teaspoon of this liquid concentrate is enough for luscious-looking plants.
- FASTEST ROOTING POWDER FOR PLANT CUTTINGS: Hormex rooting...
- SUITABLE FOR ALL GROW MEDIUMS: Accelerate strong and healthy...
Why Did We Like It?
This liquid rooting hormone has been around for quite some time now and is one of the most trusted products for both residential and commercial use. In addition to the commonly found IBA auxin, the formula also uses a special Vitamin B1 compound that facilitates the root to grow stronger and deeper.
Besides, the blend of these two vital compounds allows the root fibers to process oxygen, nutrients, and water more efficiently. This will, in turn, speed up the growing process and make the cuts grow into healthy little plants, ready for transplantation.
On this note, we ought to mention that much like the Bonide Bontone Rooting Powder, this liquid hormone negates transplantation-related stress in the young nodes of any plant variety.
Simply dilute a tiny amount of the concentrate with lots of water, and dip the cutting before placing it in a moist medium. Additionally, you can also adjust the dilution in accordance with other needs like watering and reducing lawn, the instructions for which are mentioned on the jar.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We thought that the nomenclature for this product is a bit misleading since it’s not a fertilizer per se. The nutrient content doesn’t make it suitable for being used as a primary fertilizer; you will still need to provide the plants with proper ‘food’. Having said that, we are satisfied with how it performs for other requirements.
- Can be used for hydroponics
- Available in various sizes
- Easy to dilute
- Varied uses
- Cannot be used as a fertilizer
8. Hormodin Rooting Compound
No list of rooting hormones can be complete without mentioning the Hormodin Rooting Compound, simply because it aces the ‘difficult’ job, quite literally! The powerful ready-to-use formula comes in a half-pound jug so that you can share some with your neighbors and perhaps, with their neighbors as well.
- Most convenient, effective rooting compound
- No measuring or mixing required
Why Did We Like It?
By this time, you must have figured out our inclination toward the IBA compound, as we just can’t get enough of the auxins’ growth-powering ability. The high percentage in this product means that you get better productivity for the difficult species in your garden.
Just dip the stem in some powder and plant it well. While on it, don’t add the remaining product back into the jar, lest contamination happens. Furthermore, you can also use the powder in very low quantities for watering young plants. Including this extra step in your routine can enhance the root stimulation process for more substantial growth.
Not only that, slightly dilute the powder with water and soak it in the dried-out stems for 24-48 hours. They will be as good as new. Its versatility for the humble price tag makes this product a jack of all trades, and even a master of all!
What Could’ve Been Better?
The only problem is that we couldn’t find any smaller containers of the product. This, however, is not a deal-breaker, not if you want to purchase a rooting hormone for experimentation. In that case, the quantity might be too much to use and store.
- Apt for difficult-to-root varieties
- Can be used in a solution form
- Hydrates dry roots
- Promotes root stimulation in young plants
- Only one size available
9. Quick Clone Gel
The Quick Clone Gel is a superior-grade rooting hormone made from all-natural ingredients which makes this product a popular choice among organic gardeners. A high concentration of vitamins and nutrients is what makes it a fast and effective medium for cloning.
Why Did We Like It?
The list of ingredients is what tempted us to try the product in the first place. In addition to the organic tea brewed from leaves, herbs, and barks, there are 60 other ingredients that ensure complete cell development. Plus, the brand uses twice the standard amount of rooting hormones for the all-around growth of the plants.
The application process is pretty much the same as that of the HydroDynamics Clonex Rooting Gel with a little variation. Before dunking the fresh cut into the gel, make sure you have dipped it in water. Once done, place the plant in your desired rooting medium, and rooting shall begin in 5 to 10 days. For best results, cut the stem at a 45-degree angle.
Its thick consistency effectively seals the cutting and maintains a longer contact time to help the roots grow quickly. And you don’t need to use a lot of products for the purpose.
All in all, the Quick Clone Gel is a natural and effective formula that gets the job done without burning a hole in your pocket.
What Could’ve Been Better?
In case you are planning to use water as the rooting medium, you may observe that some of the gel gets dissolved. However, this isn’t too much of a concern as the leftover coating sticks to the stem for providing the essential nutrients.
- Contains amino acids
- Has a vegetative nutrient profile
- Can be used to clone hardwood fruit trees
- Less prone to spillage
- May get dissolved when rooted in water
Buying Guide For The Best Rooting Hormone
Sure, most rooting hormones won’t drill a hole in your pocket, even if you’re a beginner or a hobby gardener. Now, this fact may tempt you to buy one right away, but hear out some words of advice. There are a few important things to consider so that even this nominal investment doesn’t backfire.
Read on as we list some of these key factors below.
Gel vs Powder vs Liquid
Gel-based hormones are one of the most preferred forms, mainly because they are easy to apply. The tenacious quality of these products clings around the cut and doesn’t wash off very easily. If you’re planning to use water for rooting, then we’d recommend going for a gel hormone.
Powdered hormones, on the other hand, have a better shelf life as compared to the other two categories. Furthermore, there are a few such products that are available in varied strengths for effective rooting on different plant varieties.
The advantage of liquid hormones is the degree of control for specific needs. Since most formulas must be diluted before use, you can adjust the measurement of water for increasing or decreasing the concentration of the product.
No matter the kind of hormone, its usage directions must be followed for optimum results.
Versatility
There are a few products out there that can be used for other gardening jobs like watering and lawn reduction. Moreover, certain hormones can also facilitate growth from parts other than cuts, like seeds or buds, for example. If you want to save yourself from the hassle of buying different products for different needs, we’d suggest investing in a multi-purpose formula.
Alcohol Content
The inclusion of mild alcohol is a good way to ensure in-built disinfection and maximum protection from diseases and contamination. However, there are certain varieties that are prone to suffer burns when exposed to alcohol-based hormones. In case you are not sure about the plant properties, we’d recommend avoiding such products.
Conclusion
If used judiciously, a rooting hormone can be your plant’s best friend!
Apart from facilitating the cloning process, these supplements can also enhance the overall growth process by providing the right kind of nutrients. And to help you make the right purchase, we’ve tested every product before including them in the list.
But before we call it a day, here’s a quick shoutout to some of our favorites.
The HydroDynamics Clonex Rooting Gel includes anti-fungal properties to fight off diseases. On the other hand, the Hydrofarm Liquid Hormone Concentrate has a self-sanitizing formula for minimizing contamination in young plants.
The Hormex Fertilizer is one of the best multi-purpose growth stimulators, and the Maxiroot Organic Gel is a plant-based affordable option.
With this, it’s time for us to sign off. We hope our effort helps you pick the right product, as we wish your greens to prosper and proliferate. Do tell us your thoughts in the comments below,
Adios!
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