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.
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.
By
11/18/2007
I shall definitely try this - along the lane from my house there are loads of willow growing. Thanks for this tip! Kindest Regards - Borasic Lint