Make Rooting Hormone From Willow

Making your own rooting hormone with willow water.

Here's what you do:

Get a handful of willow twigs (any Salix species will do)

Cut them into pieces a few inches long

Soak the twigs in a few inches of water for a day or two; then remove the twigs.

Use the willow water to soak cuttings in overnight, or to water flats of newly started cuttings, or to help transplants.

Now remember since this method isn't very exact, the strength of the willow water can vary depending on the time of year, the number of twigs, the concentration of hormones in the twigs, and the amount of time that the twigs were soaked. You will, however, still get a solution that will help your plants root.

By Sherry from Silverdale, WA

Related:
Make Your Own Rooting Hormone

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By 01/30/2012

In the spring when new growth begins would probably be the better time to take cuttings.
Simmering the twigs for a few minutes, then let soak over night should help the process along.

By 10/16/2008

Both of these ideas are completely new to me. Thanks for taking the time to post them.

By (Guest Post) 02/21/2008

An easy form of growth hormone is organic honey, as this also contains the same enzymes as the rooting hormone.