02.04.2025

The best natural root stimulant? You don’t have to look for expensive chemicals, because nature has already given you the solution!

By Lesia

You’re right! Nature provides some excellent, inexpensive root stimulants. Here are some of the best natural options:

1. Willow Water:

  • How it works: Willow bark contains salicylic acid, a natural rooting hormone.
  • How to make it:
    • Cut young willow branches into small pieces.
    • Boil them in water for about an hour.
    • Let the water cool, and strain it.
  • How to use it: Soak cuttings in the willow water for several hours or overnight before planting.

2. Honey:

  • How it works: Honey has natural antiseptic and antifungal properties, which can help prevent rot and promote root growth.
  • How to use it:
    • Dissolve a tablespoon of honey in a cup of warm water.
    • Dip the cut ends of your cuttings into the honey solution before planting.

3. Aloe Vera:

  • How it works: Aloe vera gel contains enzymes and hormones that stimulate root development.
  • How to use it:
    • Extract the gel from an aloe vera leaf.
    • Dilute the gel with water (about one part gel to ten parts water).
    • Dip the cuttings into the diluted gel before planting.

4. Cinnamon:

  • How it works: Cinnamon has antifungal properties and can help prevent cuttings from rotting.
  • How to use it:
    • Sprinkle a small amount of ground cinnamon on the cut ends of your cuttings before planting.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar:

  • How it works: Diluted apple cider vinegar can help lower the pH of the soil, which can promote root growth.
  • How to use it:
    • Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a gallon of water.
    • Use the solution to water your cuttings after planting.

6. Saliva:

  • How it works: Human saliva contains enzymes that can promote root growth.
  • How to use it:
    • This method is very simple, dip the cut end of the cutting into your saliva before planting.

Important Considerations:

  • Cleanliness: Always use clean tools and containers to prevent the spread of disease.
  • Cutting Health: Start with healthy cuttings for the best results.
  • Plant-Specific Needs: Some plants root more easily than others, and some may have specific rooting requirements.
  • Dilution: when using honey, aloe vera, or apple cider vinegar, it is important to dilute the substances.
  • Experimentation: These natural root stimulants may work differently for different plants, so feel free to experiment to find what works best for you.

These natural root stimulants are easy to find and use, and they can be a great way to promote healthy root growth without the need for expensive chemicals.