The Complete Guide to Choosing the Best Rooting Hormone for Succulents

Propagating succulents from cuttings is an easy and fulfilling way to expand your plant collection. However, getting those cuttings to grow new roots can sometimes be tricky. Using a rooting hormone is a great way to speed up the rooting process and ensure success. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which is the best rooting hormone for succulents? This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know to pick the ideal rooting hormone and get your succulent cuttings thriving in no time.

What Exactly is a Rooting Hormone?

A rooting hormone is a substance applied to plant cuttings that stimulates root growth Most rooting hormones contain synthetic plant hormones called auxins which signal to the plant that it is time to produce roots There are three main types of auxins used in rooting hormones

• Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) – The most common synthetic auxin used. Proven effective on a wide variety of plants.

• Naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) – Sometimes used alone or combined with IBA. Less effective than IBA for many plants.

• Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) – Naturally occurring auxin produced by plants Not stable enough for commercial use,

The auxins in rooting hormones work by targeting plant cell growth and division. When applied to the cutting, they migrate down to the root initiation sites and kickstart the development of new roots. The hormones also stimulate the production of other helpful compounds needed for root growth.

Why Use a Rooting Hormone on Succulent Cuttings?

Succulents can be propagated from leaves stems, or offsets. While some succulents root readily on their own, using a rooting hormone can speed up the process and increase your chances of success. The key benefits of using rooting hormones on succulent cuttings include

• Quicker root development – Rather than waiting weeks or months for roots to appear, a rooting hormone prompts faster root growth, often in just days or weeks.

• Increased success rate – The hormones strongly signal to the plant that conditions are right to start forming roots, boosting the likelihood that roots will grow.

• Stronger, healthier roots – The auxins promote the development of a robust root system right from the start.

• Use of difficult-to-root plants – Rooting hormone enables propagation of succulents that don’t root easily on their own.

While not mandatory, rooting hormone can turn propagation from an exercise in patience into an exciting process you can see progressing daily.

What to Look for in a Rooting Hormone for Succulents

With the variety of rooting hormones available, it can be tricky to decide which one is right for your succulents. Here are the key factors to consider:

• Type of Auxin – Look for a hormone containing the most effective auxin, IBA. Avoid products with only NAA.

• Concentration – Lower concentrations like 0.1-0.8% IBA work well for most succulent cuttings. Higher concentrations can damage sensitive plants.

• Format – Powders, gels, and liquids all work. Powders stick best to succulent leaves. Gels are less messy. Liquids may need to be diluted first.

• Instructions – Ensure the product has succulents and the type of cutting you are using listed in the instructions before purchasing.

• Organic vs Synthetic – Both work, but organic solutions like honey may have lower success rates.

• Expiration – Check expiration date if using a liquid hormone and buy only fresh products.

While specialized succulent rooting hormones exist, versatile products containing 0.1-0.8% IBA in a powder or gel work well for most home gardeners.

Using Rooting Hormone on Succulent Cuttings

Rooting hormone is simple to use, but following a few best practices will give you the best shot at propagation success:

1. Take Healthy Cuttings

Start with quality plant material, selecting healthy leaves, stems, or offsets from vigorously growing plants. Avoid diseased or damaged cuttings.

2. Prepare the Cutting

Trim leaves and stems, then allow fresh cuts to callous for 1-3 days before applying hormone. This prevents rotting.

3. Apply the Hormone

Follow product instructions carefully. For powders, dip the base of the cutting in water, then into the powder. Tap off excess.

4. Plant the Cutting

Stick treated cuttings shallowly in sterile, well-draining soil. Aim for warmth and high humidity. Normal room conditions work for most succulents.

5. Wait for Roots

Resist overwatering. Check for root formation in 2-8 weeks. Transplant rosettes once roots are 1 inch long.

With the right hormone and good propagation practices, you can expect an 80-90% success rate propagating succulents!

DIY Rooting Hormones for the Organic Gardener

While commercial rooting hormones offer proven results, organic options are available if you wish to stay away from synthetic chemicals. These natural alternatives provide weaker auxin effects but can still enhance root development:

• Willow Water – Soak willow branches in water. The resulting “tea” contains salicylic acid rooting compounds.

• Cinnamon – Pure cinnamon powder has antifungal properties to protect cuttings. Some minor rooting benefits. Popular succulent propagation aid.

• Honey – Unpasteurized honey has antifungal and root promoting properties. Dilute 10:1 with water and soak cuttings.

• Aloe Vera – Fresh aloe gel contains auxins and antibacterial agents to speed rooting.

• Apple Cider Vinegar – The acetic acid may provide some antifungal and rooting benefits at low concentrations.

While DIY options work for some, commercial rooting hormone is still the surest path to robust, rapid root formation on succulent cuttings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are rooting hormones safe for all succulents?

Most succulents tolerate synthetic rooting hormones well, but concentrations over 1% IBA can potentially damage sensitive succulent species. Always check the plant type against the product instructions.

Can I use household products as rooting hormone?

Small amounts of cinnamon, honey, or aloe vera may supply minor rooting benefits. However, specialized commercial hormone works significantly better.

Is rooting hormone required for succulent propagation?

No. Many succulents will eventually form roots without hormone. However, rooting hormone speeds up the process and boosts the likelihood of success.

How long does it take for succulent cuttings to root with hormone?

With optimal warmth and humidity, hormone-treated succulent cuttings begin forming roots in as little as 2-4 weeks. Maximum rooting takes 6-8 weeks.

Can I transplant my new succulent before roots form?

Never transplant unrooted cuttings. While hormone encourages root growth, visible roots at least 1 inch long are a must before transplanting to avoid shock and death of new plants.

Understanding when and how to properly apply rooting hormone takes propagation success from uncertain to nearly guaranteed. Follow this guide, use the right product for your succulents, and enjoy watching your new plant babies thrive. Happy propagating!